Alabama businesses talk futures amid new tariffs at ‘Buy Alabama’s Best’ event

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT) — Alabama-based businesses came together for Buy Alabama’s Best Day at the state capitol. Companies hope to increase sales and awareness for their products.

Other countries like China recently raised tariffs on U.S. goods like chicken and corn. At the event, some companies discussed their concerns amid rising tariffs and what a trade war could mean for the future of their businesses.

Milo’s Sweet Tea, based out of Bessemer, has been around for 79 years. When it comes to new taxes from other countries, Milo’s said they are always monitoring their prices.

“We’re always paying attention to anything that might affect pricing for our consumers,” said Atticus Rominger, vice president of corporate communications for Milo’s Tea Company. “Because, ultimately, we want to make sure that what we’re putting out is a high value product, excellent quality, at a cost that our consumers can afford.”

Bud’s Best Cookies have been around for over thirty years. The bite-sized treats are made in Birmingham. Bubba Lindley with Bud’s said he has some fear about the increase in tariffs. “It could impact us, and it might as well,” he said. “I mean, prices are through the roof. I mean, you look at egg prices and everything else. It’s astronomical. But hopefully we’ll get everything fixed.”

Darien Craig founded Y’all Sweet Tea in 2021. The company is based in Hayden, Alabama, and ships flavored teas across the United States. Craig said he doesn’t have any fears about new levies from other countries.

“Obviously, it’s still unfolding and we’re still learning a lot about it. I think we’re being very cautious and looking into it,” Craig explained. “But current scares? No. But who knows what’s going to happen?”

Regardless of whether tariffs will impact grocery prices or the future of these businesses, Gov. Kay Ivey (R) said Alabamians prefer products made at home.

“Alabama likes to eat homegrown stuff,” she said. “So, I think Alabamians will continue to eat homegrown stuff.”

Gov. Ivey said over 888,000 Alabamians work in food manufacturing in some capacity. She said Alabama’s food industry is on a roll.