SHREVEPORT, La. — Shreveport’s Rhino Coffee is feeling the pressure of rising tariffs that are driving up the cost of importing coffee beans and packaging materials.
About 99% of America’s coffee is imported, meaning even local shops rely on international suppliers. For Rhino, that could mean higher prices — unless they find creative ways to cut costs. The company has advantages that larger roasters don’t, such as adjusting staffing levels and simplifying its menu to control expenses.
Rhino buys beans nearly a year in advance through several importers, sourcing from countries like Colombia and Guatemala — both now facing a 10% tariff. Thanks to long-standing relationships with its importers, the company has been able to absorb much of the increased cost without immediately passing it on to customers…