With a new wave of tariffs taking effect, foodservice operators across the country are faced with a tough decision: raise menu prices or absorb rising costs. Either option creates operational challenges—but the real question is, how can you get ahead of the impact before it hits your bottom line?
At Buyers Edge Platform, we believe that cost volatility doesn’t have to dictate your margins. With the right data, supplier relationships, and procurement tools, you can build a smarter, more resilient strategy—even during tariff uncertainty.
What Are the New Tariffs—and Who Do They Affect?
On April 2, 2025, President Donald Trump announced a sweeping set of tariffs, including:
- A 10% baseline tariff on all imported goods, effective April 5, 2025 (White House).
- Increased “reciprocal” tariffs ranging from 11% to 50% on imports from 57 countries identified as having nonreciprocal or discriminatory trading practices, effective April 9, 2025. For instance, imports from China face a cumulative tariff rate of 54% (CBO).
These tariffs impact a broad spectrum of products, including food items, beverages, packaging materials, and equipment. Consequently, virtually everyone in the foodservice ecosystem—from independent restaurant owners and hospitality groups to distributors, retailers, and suppliers—is affected.
Why This Matters to Operators
Already operating on thin margins, foodservice operators may experience:
- Increased Costs: A surge in prices for imported goods such as coffee, seafood, and cooking oils.
- Supply Chain Disruptions: Retaliatory tariffs from other countries may lead to delays or shortages of essential products.
- Operational Challenges: Higher costs for equipment and packaging materials, such as aluminum cans, which are subject to a 25% tariff.
How Buyers Edge Platform Helps You Respond
Forecast Product Cost Impact
We know prices will be affected by the tariffs—but exactly how much remains uncertain. That’s why the smartest move right now is to be proactive: start identifying strategies to offset potential cost increases before they hit your bottom line.
Swap SKUs or Suppliers Quickly
With support from our expert brands, including Dining Alliance, Consolidated Concepts, Source1, and Produce Alliance, you can swiftly pivot to alternative suppliers, identify more cost-effective SKUs, or access discounted items.
Negotiate Stronger Contracts
Our procurement experts assist in securing better contract terms to shield against price fluctuations, covering everything from core items to specialty SKUs.
Track Price Movement with The Right Technology
Our InsideTrack technology provides real-time visibility into price changes, helping you validate costs, flag anomalies, and avoid overpaying—especially critical when market conditions shift suddenly.
Access a Wide Network of Supplier Options
With national reach and strategic partnerships, Buyers Edge Platform helps diversify your sourcing strategy, ensuring that changes in one region or country don’t derail your entire supply chain.
The Bottom Line
The recent tariffs are reshaping the cost landscape for foodservice. However, you’re not powerless. Buyers Edge Platform connects you with the people, partners, and technology to make informed, cost-saving decisions at every level of your operation.
Don’t wait until it impacts your bottom line. Let’s build a more flexible, future-ready procurement strategy—together. Click here to contact our foodservice experts today.
