CHARLOTTE, N.C. – April 2025 — As Washington eyes sweeping new tariffs on imported goods, small business owners across the country are bracing for impact. In Charlotte, Freedom Fitness Equipment is sounding the alarm—saying their gym equipment business could be caught in the crossfire.
In a recent interview with Queen City News, Ashton Ferrazzo, owner of a local fitness equipment company, shared his concerns that the Trump administration’s proposed tariffs, particularly those targeting Chinese imports, will send shockwaves through fitness equipment businesses. The business, which is thankfully diversified with new, used, and refurbished fitness equipment, relies heavily on new gym equipment sourced internationally, and now faces the potential of sharply rising costs.
The proposed policies includes a 145% tariff on imports from mainland China, a country that plays a vital role in supplying components used in strength and cardio equipment. A significant portion, potential 70% or more of all fitness equipment, comes from overseas. Manufacturers are already passing along costs of 10% or more to distributors.
Economists at UNC Charlotte warn that the ripple effects could go far beyond fitness gear. Matthew Metzgar, a senior lecturer in economics, pointed out that the tariffs will likely raise prices on a broad range of consumer goods, including electronics, appliances, and home furnishings—many of which depend on the same global supply networks.
For small businesses in Charlotte, the timing couldn’t be worse. Just as many are regaining footing after years of pandemic-related disruptions and inflationary pressures, another wave of financial uncertainty looms.
Still, not everyone is sitting back. Some business owners in the Queen City are already adapting—re-evaluating supply chains, looking for domestic manufacturing partners, or renegotiating contracts in hopes of cushioning the blow. Others are lobbying local leaders and trade groups to urge Washington to reconsider or create carve-outs for small businesses disproportionately affected.
As the policy takes shape in the coming weeks, many in Charlotte’s entrepreneurial community are holding their breath. For the gym equipment industry, the next few months may determine whether they can stay flexible and competitive—or fall behind in a changing global marketplace.
Thankfully, Freedom Fitness Equipment is shifting its focus towards Hammer Clad, an American made product line of rubber flooring, bars, and more, focusing on increasing the supply in the United States for those looking for affordable but American made products. It's a long process, but one that hopefully will shift manufacturing away from overseas factories.
Check out the full interview here: https://www.qcnews.com/video/charlotte-entrepreneur-fears-looming-tariffs-will-impact-gym-equipment-business/10647096
Check out the full article here: https://www.qcnews.com/charlotte/charlotte-entrepreneur-fears-looming-tariffs-on-chinese-goods-will-impact-his-gym-equipment-business/