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Tariffs increase the cost of imported goods, making domestic products more competitive. However, they can also lead to higher prices for consumers and strain relationships with trading partners. For instance, Roustan Hockey faces challenges due to U.S. tariffs, which affect its ability to compete against cheaper alternatives from abroad, potentially threatening its survival.
Globalization has intensified competition for local businesses by allowing foreign products to enter domestic markets more easily. In the case of Roustan Hockey, the influx of composite hockey sticks has overshadowed traditional wooden sticks, forcing the factory to adapt its strategies to survive in a rapidly changing market landscape.
Wooden stick manufacturers like Roustan Hockey face challenges such as declining demand, competition from composite sticks, and trade tariffs. These factors make it difficult to maintain production levels and profitability, as fewer players prefer the traditional wooden option due to the performance advantages of modern materials.
The primary alternative to wooden hockey sticks is composite sticks, which are lighter, more durable, and offer better performance. These sticks have become increasingly popular among players at all levels, leading to a decline in the market for wooden sticks. Manufacturers have had to innovate to remain relevant in this shifting landscape.
Trade policy, including tariffs and trade agreements, directly impacts manufacturing by determining the cost of imported materials and finished goods. For Roustan Hockey, U.S. tariffs on Canadian products create a challenging environment, increasing operational costs and affecting pricing strategies, which can hinder competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.
Hockey stick production in Canada has a rich history, with wooden sticks being the traditional choice for players. Over the years, as the sport evolved and technology advanced, manufacturers began producing composite sticks. Roustan Hockey, as the last major wooden stick factory, represents a historic legacy in Canadian sports manufacturing amid a shifting industry landscape.
Many players prefer wooden sticks for their traditional feel and performance characteristics, such as better puck control and a more natural shot. Despite the rise of composite alternatives, some players believe that wooden sticks provide a unique connection to the game, making them a nostalgic choice for enthusiasts and purists.
Trade tensions often lead to increased tariffs, which can raise the cost of imported goods. As manufacturers face higher costs, they may pass these expenses onto consumers, resulting in higher retail prices. For example, tariffs affecting Roustan Hockey could lead to increased prices for wooden sticks, impacting affordability for consumers.
Tariffs serve as a tool for governments to regulate international trade by imposing taxes on imported goods, which can protect domestic industries from foreign competition. However, excessive tariffs can lead to trade wars, reducing overall trade volumes and harming economies, as seen with the challenges faced by Roustan Hockey due to U.S. tariffs.
Roustan Hockey has adapted to market changes by focusing on maintaining quality and tradition in its wooden sticks while navigating challenges posed by tariffs and competition. The factory continues to produce a significant volume of sticks annually, emphasizing craftsmanship and the unique attributes of wooden sticks to appeal to a niche market.
