With the current tariff landscape shifting fast, U.S.-based direct-to-consumer (DTC) manufacturing brands have a massive opportunity—but only if they move strategically.
While some overseas competitors may be pulling back, now is the time to lean in. If you’re making products here in the States and selling online, here are seven things your brand should be doing right now to capitalize on the current landscape.
1. Tighten Up Your Brand Story—and Make It Matter to Consumers
It’s not just about saying you’re American-made. It’s about showing why that matters.
Your story should explain the value to the consumer: high-quality products, faster shipping, and soon, lower costs compared to imported goods impacted by tariffs. Yes, it helps the local economy—but make sure the benefits to the buyer are front and center.
2. Share That Story Across Every Channel
Don’t bury your brand story on a single “About Us” page. If you’re American-made, say it loud and often.
Make it part of your messaging on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube—everywhere. Now more than ever, consumers want to know where their products come from. Make it clear that you’re local, proud, and built to last.
3. Take Advantage of Lower Advertising Costs
With some big international players pulling back on ad spend due to tariffs and supply chain issues, CPMs are dropping.
That means you can get in front of more people—for less. If you’re not increasing your paid media efforts right now, you’re leaving attention on the table. Use this window to build brand awareness and capture customers while your competitors pause.
4. Make Sure You’re on the Right Platform
If you’re still using an outdated e-commerce system, now’s the time to move. Shopify is the go-to for nearly every modern DTC brand—and for good reason.
It’s optimized for online and in-person selling, plays nicely with wholesale platforms, and keeps your ops team from wasting time on clunky back-end work. The right tech stack frees you up to grow—not troubleshoot.
5. Get on an Affiliate Platform
With other brands pulling out of affiliate programs, affiliate marketers are on the hunt for new partnerships.
Now’s your chance to bring in a fresh wave of traffic and sales by inviting affiliates to promote your products. Set up your program, make your assets easy to access, and open the door to a new sales channel.
6. Add a Wholesale Sign-Up Form to Your Site
Retailers are looking for new products to sell—especially if their existing suppliers are impacted by tariffs or shutting down.
Make it dead simple for them to find you. Add a wholesale inquiry form to your site and let interested retailers raise their hands. If your product is American-made and available, you’ve got leverage. Use it.
7. Encourage Post-Purchase Sharing Around “American-Made”
Your customers want to support local—and they’re proud to say so.
Add a request in your post-purchase emails or packaging inserts asking customers to share your brand on social, especially with a focus on being made in the USA. Encourage them to tag your brand and talk about why it matters. This isn’t just marketing—it’s word of mouth with values built in.
Capitalize on the Current Landscape with These 7 Things U.S. Manufacturers Should Do Right Now Amid Tariffs
Tariffs are disrupting the global supply chain—but if you’re manufacturing in the U.S., the current moment is tailor-made for growth. Tighten your messaging, boost visibility, and open up new sales channels while the opportunity is hot.
Want help taking your e-commerce store to the next level? Click here to learn more about Brandhopper Digital and see if your business is a good fit to work with us!