In Merriam, Kansas, My Home Contemporary Furniture is more than just a furniture store; it represents the culmination of owner Henrik Svendsen’s lifelong efforts. Svendsen had envisioned the business as a legacy for his children, but plans will change as he prepares to close the store in August due to the impact of tariffs. The escalating trade war initiated by President Trump has significantly increased import costs, making the products sold at Svendsen’s store unaffordable for both him and his customers. “With the tariffs right now, it will be $2,500,” he noted, with potential for even higher costs.
Since the trade war began, Svendsen has incurred around $162,000 in tariffs. This financial burden has led him to the difficult decision to liquidate the store’s assets, as maintaining a low sale price is not sustainable in the current economic climate. Svendsen’s furniture predominantly comes from abroad, with 99% of his inventory imported, half of which is sourced from China. Other products are imported from Mexico, Thailand, and various European countries.
Though he does sell American-made furniture, many components of that furniture still face tariffs due to overseas manufacturing. The closing of the store will also lead to layoffs for Svendsen’s ten employees, including Henning Mikkelsen. Mikkelsen expressed concerns about his uncertain future, stating, “It is scary to not know what the future is going to bring.” He, like many others, is now faced with the challenge of finding new employment while trying to provide for themselves and their families.