Here's a brutal truth most retail executives don't want to face: We're entering a chaotic new era of global trade that will create painful winners and losers. The strategic decisions you make about your brand in the coming weeks might determine which category you fall into.Our whitepaper distills key insights from Rick Helfenbein's recent session with Compass Experience Labs clients. Drawing on his experience as former President and CEO of the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) and his frontline role during the first wave of trade policy upheaval, Rick provided a clear-eyed assessment few industry insiders are discussing publicly.
This level of strategic intelligence is what Compass regularly delivers to our clients. Now, we're sharing the three immediate actions brands can implement to safeguard their margins and market position during this unprecedented tariff disruption.
What You'll Learn:
Why 97% of US apparel imports face disruptive new tariffs - and why "Made in America" remains unrealistic for most brands
The surprise success of an iconic British luxury SUV maker's counterintuitive tariff strategy
How direct political engagement is yielding faster results than expected
Why creating a strategic "war room" is essential for survival
The cold reality of current inventory situations and pricing pressures
The Stakes Couldn't Be Higher
With China facing an astonishing 145% tariff, Vietnam at 46%, and India at 26%, the global supply chain is experiencing its most dramatic transformation since World War II. Most retailers have only 5-7 weeks of inventory on hand, and the luxury market is forecast to decline by 2% - marking its longest downturn in two decades.For companies that make fundamental adjustments now, this disruption represents opportunity. Those who simply wait for things to return to normal will find themselves perpetually behind the curve.
