Los Angeles — Munchkin, a leading baby products company known for its innovative infant and toddler items, is facing significant challenges due to recent increases in U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum.
Steven Dunn, Munchkin’s CEO and founder, told CBS News that the White House’s decision to double tariffs from 25% to 50% on these metals has sharply increased production costs for many of the company’s products. “No one thinks about a baby spoon as a steel product,” Dunn said, explaining that the popular soft bite baby spoon will now cost 80% more to produce because of the combined steel tariffs and existing 30% tariffs on imports from China.
The tariff hikes affect nearly all of Munchkin’s 500-plus products, most of which are manufactured in China. Dunn said the increased costs have already hurt profits and forced the company to lay off workers for the first time in 35 years.
Popular items such as strollers and thermometers are also impacted, with some products being discontinued. Dunn warned that passing the higher costs onto consumers would make products unaffordable, and he doubts customers would accept the price increases.
Munchkin has ruled out moving manufacturing to the U.S., citing a lack of local manufacturing infrastructure, tooling, and automation capabilities.
“The shifting tariff policies create uncertainty,” Dunn said. “It’s like being blindfolded, throwing darts at a rotating target.”
Founded in 1991 and headquartered in Van Nuys, California, Munchkin has earned a reputation for innovative baby products and holds over 300 patents. The company’s product range includes feeding supplies, bath accessories, travel gear, safety items, and more. Munchkin also leads sustainability efforts, aiming to reduce packaging waste and environmental impact.
Despite its innovation and market presence, the company now faces significant headwinds due to escalating trade tensions and tariff policies.
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