French furniture manufacturer Fermob is feeling the heat from rising tariffs in the United States. Known for its colorful outdoor designs, the century-old company is grappling with higher prices and shrinking profits due to increased tariffs on European imports.
“A chair that once sold for $150 now needs to be priced at $175 in the U.S.,” said Bernard Reybier, president of Fermob. The price hike has made it challenging for Fermob to remain competitive in the American market.
In response, the company is considering reducing sales to the U.S. and shifting its focus toward Australia and Asia. Reybier expressed a keen interest in expanding into the Chinese mainland, viewing it as a promising market for growth.
“We hope to strengthen our efforts in China,” Reybier shared. “An easing of U.S.-China relations would not only benefit us but also businesses and consumers across the EU and the U.S.”
As global trade tensions impact businesses worldwide, companies like Fermob are adapting their strategies to navigate the changing landscape. For Fermob, the future may lie in new markets and cultivating relationships in Asia.
