Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the challenges faced by small businesses in the U.S., particularly coffee shops, restaurants, and supermarkets, due to rising costs from tariffs and supply chain issues, leading to price increases that risk alienating customers [1][7]. Group 1: Impact on Small Businesses - Small businesses, such as coffee shops and restaurants, are forced to raise prices due to increased costs of raw materials and supplies, which are influenced by tariffs and transportation expenses [1][3]. - A coffee shop owner reported a price increase from $4.5 to $5 for lattes, resulting in customer complaints and concerns about losing loyal patrons [5][6]. - Restaurants are experiencing a 40% increase in food ingredient costs, leaving them with limited options: absorb the costs, raise prices, or seek non-existent domestic alternatives [3][7]. Group 2: Consumer Sensitivity - Consumers are highly sensitive to price changes, with even small increases prompting comparisons and potential loss of business for small establishments [3][5]. - A supermarket manager noted that essential items like milk and bread are kept at original prices, while non-essential items see price hikes of $0.2 to $0.5 to maintain customer loyalty [6][7]. - Customers on fixed incomes express understanding of the situation but feel the burden of rising prices, particularly for non-essential goods [6]. Group 3: Broader Economic Context - The cancellation of the small package tax exemption exacerbates the situation for small businesses, as 97% of U.S. importers are small enterprises facing increased costs due to tariffs [7]. - Larger companies can mitigate tariff impacts through inventory management and diversified suppliers, while small businesses struggle to secure necessary credit due to fluctuating trade policies [7].