Toy industry impacted by tariffs this holiday season

TAMPA, Fla. — It’s the most wonderful time of the year for many, and the start of a busy shopping season. But for some families, they’ll be thinking twice about their shopping decisions and keeping an eye on the price tag.

All aboard the Lego train, this time of the year transports Gregg Williams to his childhood.

“It’s the love of Lego, the love of Christmas and bonding time with the family,” he says.

He’s the owner of Brick City Bricks in Plant City. In the eight years his store has been in business, this time of year is one of the busiest.

“From now until Christmas, I’d say 40 to 50% of our sales could come from here,” he says.

But he has been concerned this year, because of the fluctuating tariff prices on imported goods such as Lego.

“Most of our Legos come from Mexico, so overseas tariffs and all other tariffs going into effect, they’ve kind of been bouncing back and forth,” he said.

Williams says people have expressed their concerns regarding Lego prices already. The Toy Association released the latest information on the tariff impact last month.

The association stated it has been closely monitoring major global trade and tariff developments that may affect toy industry operations and costs.

While the tariffs are having a pricing impact on Lego, it’s also keeping shoppers like Lee Longoria on the hunt for the best prices.

“I’m still shopping around, still comparing prices and see if the other stores haggle with prices, that’s one way people can save money, talking to the managers the store owner,” he says.

Economists report holiday spending to be lower this year than in previous years, in part due to sales growth and the tariffs.

But Williams is staying positive, looking to get more people though the doors.

“If you get joy out of it, and you know people spend a little bit on their hobby, that’s what it’s all about,” he says.

The Trump administration says it put these tariffs in place to reduce the trade deficit. Meanwhile, Brick City Bricks will also be having sales in-store this weekend. And Plant City Mainstreet will also be offering free wrapping if you shop local, free of charge.

That is happening Saturday, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.