Shoppers Are Worried About Tariffs and Are Seeking Sales and Coupons To Offset Prices, Survey Finds

If you’ve been watching the news the last few weeks, you know that the headlines have been dominated by coverage of President Trump’s plan to enact tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China. 

Experts say the tariffs — tax on goods imported from abroad — could drive up the costs of an array of consumer goods, from groceries to automobiles, CBS News reported. And while the rollout of the tariff plan has changed course and has been delayed, U.S. consumers are growing increasingly concerned about the impact on their daily lives. 

According to a recent survey by Numerator, many shoppers are worried that these tariffs will raise the prices of everyday products. With more than eight out of 10 consumers aware of the new tariffs, it’s clear that this issue is on people’s minds. Here’s what the survey reveals about consumer concerns and how they plan to respond.

One of the most pressing concerns for consumers is the price increase that tariffs may trigger. The survey reveals that 64 percent of consumers are worried about tariffs raising the price of everyday goods like groceries, clothing, and household items. 

Consumers are especially concerned about the impact of tariffs on essential items. Fifty-five percent of shoppers are worried about higher grocery prices (eggs, anyone?), while 41% are concerned about higher gasoline prices. Thirty-four percent of shoppers surveyed are also anxious about increased prices on household goods.

Image: Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images

As the prices of everyday goods are expected to rise, a majority (76%) of the shoppers surveyed by Numerator say they will adjust their shopping habits in response to the tariffs. Some strategies they plan to use include:

• Seeking sales or coupons: 41% of consumers will actively look for discounts to offset the price increases caused by tariffs. This could mean that shoppers are more likely to hunt for sales, use loyalty programs, or rely on discount retailers to stretch their budgets.
  
• Buying fewer imported goods: 30% of consumers say they will avoid purchasing products from overseas to reduce the impact of tariffs. This reflects a growing preference for domestically produced goods as a way to sidestep higher prices on imports.
  
• Switching to U.S.-made alternatives: 26% plan to buy American-made products instead of imported ones, even if these alternatives are slightly more expensive. This shift could be seen as an attempt to support domestic manufacturing while avoiding tariff-related price hikes.
  
• Stocking up or delaying purchases: Some consumers are trying to time their purchases to take advantage of lower prices before tariffs raise costs. 23% said they would buy items now in anticipation of future price increases, while 22% plan to delay purchases until they think prices will stabilize.
  
• Increasing budgets: About 10% of consumers said they would raise their budgets for certain products if the price hikes were unavoidable.

It’s apparent that as U.S. shoppers face higher prices due to tariffs, they are becoming more vigilant and strategic in their shopping habits. 

Experts seem to agree that this more careful, thoughtful approach to spending is the way to go. According to NerdWallet, preparing your budget for price increases is one of the most important steps to take in this uncertain era of tariffs. Smart-shopping expert Trae Bodge also shared with NerdWallet that looking for sales, comparing prices, and using tools, such as coupon websites can help stretch your budget.

But preparation is key — and so is keeping informed on ways to save on on both essentials and splurges. Check out all the latest sales and deals on your favorite brands and products, and learn more on how to save on gas and groceries.

The post Shoppers Are Worried About Tariffs and Are Seeking Sales and Coupons To Offset Prices, Survey Finds appeared first on The Real Deal by RetailMeNot.