Atlanta

Metro tequila company worries tariff could impact bottom line

ATLANTA — The founders of a metro tequila company are concerned the tariffs will make them drive up prices.

Goza tequila is bottled in Mexico. The company’s founders know people may think twice about what they order to eat and drink if it's more expensive.

"Instead of a $6 margarita it's now a $9 margarita. And as that happens, I think there will be a lot of disconnect between the consumer wondering who's paying for what" Goza co-founder Jacob Gluck said.

Come June 10, these Atlanta entrepreneurs could find themselves in the crosshairs of a trade war with Mexico.

President Donald Trump is threatening to slap a tariff on all goods imported from Mexico unless the country stops the flow of migrants into the United States.

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"If these threats become a reality, what does that mean for your company when it comes to importing tequila? Five figures for sure and it could be six figures in terms of added tariff costs," Gluck said.

Mexico is America's second largest trading partner and experts predict the tariffs could drive up the price on everything from cars and electronics to avocados and tequila.

But that's just the beginning because according to a statement issued by the president, the tariffs could rise throughout the summer and reach as high as 25 percent

Chamblee hot spot Bluetop Restaurant and Bar, a neighborhood favorite for margaritas, is also concerned about the impact that tariffs may have on consumer pricing.

“We sell a lot of margaritas. We sell a lot of tequila. We go through avocados like crazy," Greg Galla with the restaurant said.

These local businesses are now keeping a close eye on D.C., bracing for any challenges that come their way.

"Someone’s going to have to pay for it, so it’s either going to be the American companies  or it will have to be the restaurant or the consumer," Gluck said.