Shoppers rush to buy school supplies before potential tariffs take effect
Euphenie Andre
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)
Back-to-school shopping is starting earlier than usual this year, as families scramble to buy supplies before new tariffs take effect next month.
For many shoppers, it’s all about beating the clock. With tariffs set to impact the cost of imported school essentials starting Aug. 1, parents and grandparents are hitting stores to avoid potential price hikes.
According to the National Retail Federation, two-thirds of back-to-school shoppers have already begun purchasing supplies.
“I’m here back-to-school shopping for my grandson before the tariffs hit,” John Leslie said.
Families with students in elementary through high school are expected to spend around of $860 this year on clothes, shoes, and supplies, according to the NRF. Leslie said he spent about $50 just on school supplies during his shopping trip.
Many essential items such as pencils, notebooks and backpacks are imported from countries like India, China and France, according to global trade data. As a result, those items could soon see an increase in price.
A Staples location in Jefferson City had much of its clearance section had already been picked over. Across the street, Walmart was still well-stocked, but many items were marked down under rollback pricing.
Online shopping remains the top source for back-to-school purchases, followed by department stores, discount stores, and clothing retailers, according to the NRF.
ABC 17 News spoke with families at various stores, most were unaware of the upcoming tariffs. There’s still time to shop, but shelves may not stay full for long.
Classes begin Aug. 18 for the Jefferson City School District.