Valdese Wrestles With Tariffs—Like Everyone Else!
September 16, 2025
Blake Millinor
VALDESE, NC (USA) Valdese Weavers LLC, one of the largest volume upholstery mills worldwide is dealing with the US tariffs like everyone else.
“From China, some partners offered more concessions than others; we (Valdese) have taken some of the increase as well,” says Blake Millinor, Valdese President & CEO. “Our velvet from South Korea did get impacted by the tariffs, but not as much.”
“The tariffs have been good and bad,” Millinor adds. “I think it has caused customers to lean in our direction but may be offset by causing more market weakness. Tariffs on imported yarns have caused some cost increases but have been fractional to those who import fabrics.”
As previously reported, Visatex made a deal to distribute the Valdese Weavers line in Europe last January.
As a result, Valdese woven upholstery will be on display at the Visatex (Spain) stand at Heimtextil 2026.
“From China, some partners offered more concessions than others; we (Valdese) have taken some of the increase as well,” says Blake Millinor, Valdese President & CEO. “Our velvet from South Korea did get impacted by the tariffs, but not as much.”
“The tariffs have been good and bad,” Millinor adds. “I think it has caused customers to lean in our direction but may be offset by causing more market weakness. Tariffs on imported yarns have caused some cost increases but have been fractional to those who import fabrics.”
As previously reported, Visatex made a deal to distribute the Valdese Weavers line in Europe last January.
As a result, Valdese woven upholstery will be on display at the Visatex (Spain) stand at Heimtextil 2026.
