In a corner of a cavernous 1890s factory in southern Massachusetts, 15 people are bent over sewing machines, churning out specialty, hospital-grade neonatal gear. They are all that remain of what was once a much bigger manufacturing operation, most of which the Teixeira family shut down in 1990, reinventing their business as a largely warehousing and distribution operation.
Since US President Donald Trump started rolling out sweeping tariffs, the Teixeiras have been fielding more inquiries from companies newly interested in their US-based sewing services. However, they have turned down those offers, deterred by the difficulty of hiring amidst an immigration crackdown and doubts that demand will be sustained. It's just not going to happen, said Frank Teixeira, who has overseen the family business's transformation into Accurate Services Inc. He added that tariffs represent a bad policy that may ultimately backfire.
Trump's presidency was built on promises of economic improvement fueled by tariffs designed to lower costs and rejuvenate manufacturing. This message resonated with voters in traditional Democratic strongholds, including Fall River, marking a historic political shift. However, experts warned that these tariffs would increase prices for consumers and businesses, slowing growth, particularly for those relying on imported supplies.
As the tariffs continue to take effect, the disparity between Trump’s optimistic rhetoric on new investments and the challenges faced in towns like Fall River is becoming evident. Employment growth has plateaued, with manufacturing shedding jobs, raising concerns about the future viability of manufacturing in the U.S.
George Matouk, CEO of a local high-end bedding manufacturer, reported significant increases in costs due to tariffs, jeopardizing investments and sales as higher costs are passed on to consumers. Despite Matouk’s history of commitment to American manufacturing, he feels penalized by these policies, which he describes as demoralizing.
Meanwhile, some local residents remain hopeful. Trump supporters in Fall River express patience, believing improvements will come with time. Retired transit worker Tom Teixeira, who supported Trump in previous elections, is optimistic despite current struggles, expressing hope for a better future influenced by the president’s vision.
These mixed sentiments underscore the complex landscape of American manufacturing under the current administration, where promises of economic revival clash with harsh realities on the ground, leading many to question whether the promised renaissance will ever come to fruition.
