The founder of Arizona Iced Tea, Don Vultaggio, has made a bold promise to customers: the beloved 99-cent price tag on their signature cans will remain unchanged, even in the face of rising costs from former President Donald Trump's aluminum tariffs.
In a recent interview, Vultaggio emphasized his commitment to affordability, stating, "We're going to fight as hard as we can to keep the price at 99 cents." The tariffs, imposed in 2018, increased the cost of aluminum imports by 10%, squeezing profit margins across the beverage industry.
Why Arizona Iced Tea Stands Firm
Despite the financial pressure, Vultaggio explained that the company would absorb the extra costs rather than pass them on to consumers. "Our customers are loyal, and we want to stay loyal to them," he said. The decision has been met with widespread approval, with many praising the brand for prioritizing affordability over profits.
The Impact of Trump's Trade Policies
Trump's tariffs on aluminum were part of a broader strategy to boost domestic manufacturing, but critics argued they led to higher prices for businesses and consumers. Arizona Iced Tea's stance highlights the ongoing challenges companies face in balancing rising costs with customer expectations.
Vultaggio's announcement has reignited debates about trade policies and corporate responsibility, with many calling for a reassessment of tariffs that disproportionately affect everyday consumers.
