SPRINGFIELD, ILL. (WAND) - Tariffs have been impacting the prices of many imported items, leaving many to wonder where they can find a good deal.
However, one place that tariffs haven't significantly affected is your local boutique and antique thrift stores.
Velvet and Rosemary, a thrift clothing store located within Willow and Birch parlor, has experienced little to no impact from the tariffs that have been implemented.
Jessica Kocurek, the owner of Willow and Birch, spoke to WAND News on behalf of Velvet and Rosemary. She mentioned that they haven't really felt the effects of the tariffs, which she finds interesting.
"It's interesting to see a lot of the things in the media showing this has been affected, this has been affected. For our business directly both in the clothing world as well in supplies that we need for the salon, we've yet to see any increases there," said Kocurek.
Korcurek explains that Velvet and Rosemary obtain their products from various wholesale suppliers and also upcycle some thrifted finds, which helps keep their prices low.
"They do a lot of thrifted second-hand upcycled clothing. So that's purchased locally from different estate sales, thrift stores, things of that nature," said Korcurek.
Linda Renehan, the owner of Springfield Vintage, usually finds her items at flea markets and garage sales. She is not worried about tariffs impacting her shop anytime soon.
"Tariffs aren't going to affect the second-hand market that much for me at least," said Renehan.
Both business owners believe that these tariffs might encourage more people to support local small businesses, potentially increasing foot traffic in their stores.
"Shopping local is important in so many ways. You know, your dollars stay in your town..If we can use what we have with the things that are here pre-tariff, I think that's going to help people," said Renehan.
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