Tea, Tariffs, and Triumph: 3 Ways to Build Your Dream Business Now

A young woman is drinking tea while sitting alone at a table with her laptop. (Photo by ViDI Studio on Shutterstock)

What if the perfect time to start your dream business is when the world insists it’s the worst?

With tariffs looming and uncertainty shaking supply chains, launching a tea business right now might seem impractical — but is it? History shows that moments of uncertainty can be the right time to take the leap. Let’s explore why.

Embracing Opportunity in Uncertain Times

Starting a business during economic turbulence is a daring move, but countless entrepreneurs have turned challenges into opportunities. Take Revlon and Publix — both launched during the Great Depression, a time of severe financial hardship.

Revlon, founded in 1932, revolutionized the cosmetics industry by introducing a pigment-based nail polish that was both innovative and affordable. Unlike traditional nail polishes that used dyes, Revlon’s formula utilized pigments, offering vibrant and long-lasting colors. This small luxury resonated with consumers seeking an affordable way to lift their spirits during tough times. Within just six years, Revlon grew into a multimillion-dollar company, expanding its product line to include lipsticks and other cosmetics. By focusing on innovation and understanding the emotional needs of its customers, Revlon not only survived the economic downturn but also laid the foundation for a global beauty empire.

Publix, on the other hand, was founded in 1930 by George W. Jenkins in Winter Haven, Florida. Despite the economic challenges of the Great Depression, Jenkins prioritized exceptional customer service and a welcoming shopping experience, setting Publix apart from its competitors. His first store, though modest in size, emphasized cleanliness, quality, and a customer-first approach. By 1940, Jenkins had opened the first Publix supermarket, introducing innovations like air conditioning and self-service aisles, which were groundbreaking at the time. This commitment to enhancing the shopping experience helped Publix grow steadily, eventually becoming one of the largest and most beloved supermarket chains in the United States.

Much like those industries, today’s tea market faces its own hurdles — shifting consumer habits, fluctuating tariffs, and evolving trade landscapes. But as history proves, adversity can spark innovation. When businesses focus on thoughtful solutions, whether through unique products or comforting experiences, they create not just resilience but lasting success. Here are three practical strategies you can implement to help your business thrive:

1. Adapt with Flexible Sourcing

Tariffs and trade disruptions can create challenges, but strategic sourcing can turn them into opportunities. Diversifying your supplier base across multiple regions reduces risk, while exploring domestic tea growers or alternative suppliers can minimize costs. Transparency is key — educate your customers on these challenges and reinforce your commitment to quality and sustainability. Not only will this strengthen your operational resilience, but it will also build trust and loyalty.

2. Build an Engaging Online Community

Now more than ever, an online presence is crucial. A user-friendly website and active social media channels can serve as your digital storefront, but the real magic happens when you cultivate a community. Consider launching a members-only tea club where customers gain access to exclusive blends, discounts, and insider content. When people feel like they’re part of something special, they evolve from one-time buyers into lifelong supporters.

3. Create Memorable In-Person Experiences

While eCommerce is vital, nothing replaces a personal connection. Hosting pop-up tea bars, partnering with local cafés, or setting up booths at farmers’ markets lets customers experience your tea firsthand. It’s a chance to share your brand story, foster genuine connections, and create lasting impressions — something a digital storefront alone can’t achieve.

The Path Forward

The tea industry, like many others, faces its fair share of uncertainty, but every challenge brings an opportunity to grow and connect. By embracing flexible sourcing, fostering online communities, and offering memorable in-person experiences, your tea business can flourish, and that’s because small steps can lead to big changes. So, reach out to a new supplier, refine your brand message, and share your passion with just one more customer. With authenticity and adaptability, you’re well on your way to brewing something special.