As the announcement of new tariffs on Chinese goods looms, many American entrepreneurs are feeling the pressure. Anna Griffin, a small business owner and creative force based in Atlanta, is among those racing to adapt to a rapidly changing economic landscape.
Having begun her manufacturing journey in China back in 2001, Griffin explains that her choice was driven by the pursuit of expertise and quality rather than cost-cutting.
“Contrary to what many might assume, this decision had nothing to do with cutting corners or seeking the lowest prices. It was about finding the expertise, precision and capability needed to bring my designs to life,” she shared.
Griffin’s partnerships with factories that have decades of experience have allowed her to maintain the high quality customers expect from her products. However, when the announced tariffs skyrocketed to 145%, her team had to explore alternative manufacturing solutions swiftly.
With just six months of inventory to rely on, the urgency was palpable.
An attempt to shift domestic manufacturing led Griffin to the top printer in the United States. After testing one of her floral sticker designs, the printer delivered disappointing news: they could not match the quality her brand is known for.
Griffin noted, “It was not for lack of trying. The reality is that the skill set needed to produce our designs just does not exist here at the scale and consistency we need.”
While many policymakers hope that tariffs will bring back American manufacturing jobs, Griffin argues that this notion overlooks the complexities involved.
“The expertise in overseas factories was not built overnight. It was shaped over decades, often through partnerships with American companies like mine. That level of craftsmanship cannot be replaced simply because a policy changes, especially for us small businesses,” she said, adding that her team is now considering manufacturing options in Malaysia to maintain quality and keep production active.
Despite these challenges, Griffin emphasizes that her business has not succumbed to despair but has instead embraced innovation.
She expanded her digital offerings, allowing customers to engage with products in new and creative ways. One such initiative is called Print My Page, where community members can upload their photos into specially designed scrapbook templates to receive a printed version shipped directly to their homes.
This new service aligns with Griffin’s mission to help people tell their stories, even in light of manufacturing obstacles due to tariffs.
“While everything feels uncertain, we are continuing to focus on connection,” she remarked, stressing her commitment to her employees who have been loyal throughout various seasons of change.
Many have been with Anna Griffin Inc. for decades, forming the backbone and creative spirit of the company. Griffin believes their dedication is crucial for building a resilient business.
The tariffs may aim to protect American interests but Griffin warns that they may inadvertently penalize entrepreneurs who drive economic growth.
“I am not a multinational corporation. I am a small-business owner who has spent the last three decades employing local talent and sharing our work with the world. My goal will always be to continue designing right here in Atlanta,” she said.
Although the recent 90-day pause on the new tariffs offers momentary relief, Griffin refers to it as a temporary fix for a deeper issue—describing it as “a Band-Aid on a bullet hole.”
She believes it merely postpones the uncertainties faced by businesses daily.
Yet, Griffin remains optimistic and proactive, asserting that entrepreneurs are not content to remain stagnant. They are continuously reimagining how to fulfill their commitments to their communities amidst these challenges.
“Atlanta has always been a city of visionaries and builders. We know how to create. We know how to adapt. But we also know that no one builds alone,” she expressed.
Griffin’s hope is that small business owners like her will have an influential voice in future policy decisions that will ultimately shape their livelihoods and the broader economic landscape.
image source from：https://www.ajc.com/opinion/2025/05/i-built-a-small-business-in-atlanta-creativity-is-helping-us-adapt-to-tariffs/
