Faire, the online wholesale marketplace supporting independent retailers, has surpassed 100,000 members. The milestone comes at a pivotal time for small businesses in the US, which continue to grapple with inflation, supply chain challenges, and tariff pressures — yet remain confident in their ability to grow.
A recent EY survey found that 95% of small business owners are optimistic about the year ahead, with nearly three-quarters reporting revenue growth so far in 2025.
Still, 43% admit current conditions are hurting operations, leaving many turning to platforms like Faire for affordable sourcing, flexibility, and new opportunities.
As part of the celebration, Faire has rolled out new features within its Insider program, designed to help entrepreneurs navigate today’s rapidly evolving retail landscape. The goal is to give small businesses the agility they need to survive and thrive.
Small businesses remain the backbone of the US economy, accounting for nearly half of all private sector jobs, according to the US Chamber of Commerce. But rising costs are squeezing margins.
Research from SumUp shows that 92% of small firms have been negatively affected in the past two years, while 75% expect profitability to decline further this year. Many are switching suppliers, pausing hiring, or delaying expansion plans.
One business owner told SumUp: “Everything costs so much now. We’ve had to switch suppliers and hold off on hiring more employees. We’ve been trying to expand, but with inflation, it’s just not worth it.”
International trade tensions add further uncertainty. With tariffs on Chinese imports still in place, businesses are increasingly adopting survival strategies such as reviewing supplier contracts, investing in technology, building cash reserves, and sourcing more products locally, according to Forbes.
“Our Made in America business has seen noticeable growth in recent months,” said Faire’s Rhodes. “Small retailers are discovering new brands and adapting faster to market changes because they don’t buy as far in advance. We’re seeing both incredible resilience and incredible risk. The world is watching small businesses not just because they’re vulnerable, but because they’re essential to our economy, our culture, and our future.”
Despite the pressures, industry leaders stress that small business is not in freefall — but resilience will be tested as costs climb, advertising budgets shrink, and tariff tensions linger. The defining factor will be how quickly entrepreneurs can adapt.
