When we started our little toy store nearly 3 years ago, we never imagined a global trade war would ensue and disrupt our operations here in North Augusta, SC. The toy industry is facing unprecedented challenges, with many beloved brands struggling to keep their products on shelves. Nearly half of small- and medium-sized businesses in the sector may soon close due to current US tariff policies, according to a recent survey by The Toy Association.

How do tariffs impact us directly?

The tariffs have frozen the toy production supply chain meaning that we are not able to stock many of the unique and hard-to-find brands we’ve brought to you over the past few years. So what does that actually mean? For example, one of our favorite baby brands, based in the US and women-owned has continued to have their product manufactured in China because these factories are the only ones in the world able to deliver the quality and safety expectations of this brand. But they are unable to afford the tarriff charged to them in the US to bring them home. And we are unable to purchase them. They are actively searching for factories in the US and other countries, but those will take years to build. 

What are we doing?

Many of our other brands are finding it difficult to produce and deliver products, leading to a decrease in availability and variety. We endorse the Toy Association’s work to advocate for zero tariffs on toys and games. Our hope is that we will see the toy production supply chain reinstated in order to bring you the best toys for the holiday season. This situation has made it crucial for us at Orange Otter Toys to find innovative ways to continue offering the best toys to you.

While online giants like Amazon offer endless options, Orange Otter Toys provides something much more valuable: understanding what children truly need and helping families make choices they'll feel confident about. Your support enables us to continue offering high-quality toys that nurture creativity and development. By choosing to shop with us, you are not just purchasing a toy; you are investing in a child's future and the future of the CSRA.

What can you do?

Please continue showing up for us. This means shopping in-store and online, working on your child's wish list and tell your friends and family about us. Our kids deserve the best and we promise to keep working hard for them. Together, we can overcome these challenges and continue to bring joy. Thank you for shopping small and supporting Orange Otter Toys.

Source: Retail Dive