Local business calls on community for support amid financial struggles
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) – Alchemy Tea, a beloved Downtown shop known for its specialty blends and welcoming atmosphere, is calling on the community for support as it faces financial strain driven by rising supply costs and recent economic challenges.
In a candid Facebook post earlier this week, owner Lacey Martin warned customers that the shop may be forced to close if sales don’t improve.
The spike in expenses follows recent tariffs under President Donald Trump’s trade policies, which have driven up the cost of imported goods, including tea.
According to Martin, the cost of some of their high-quality loose-leaf tea, much of which is imported, has doubled, and some even tripled. What once cost $17 a bag now costs up to $45. Despite the increases, she said Alchemy Tea does not plan to raise its prices, citing a desire to protect customers' wallets.
"In order to keep the lights on and the tea brewing, we need people to come in our door," said Martin, "Thank you to everybody that supports us, we're not giving up on Alchemy. This is what we live for: we love our customers. It's more than just tea here, it's an atmosphere."
In addition to loose-leaf tea, the shop also offers hand-crafted drinks, tea accessories, bulk blends, and curated oddities. Alchemy Tea also features Unique Unicorn, a whimsical plant shop that formerly operated as its own storefront but now shares space inside Alchemy and continues to sell plants and products online.
Alchemy Tea is planning community events and gatherings. However, Martin noted that such efforts carry financial risk if participation remains low.
Despite the challenges, the business is not ready to give up. The Alchemy team is asking for feedback and ideas from the community to help keep the shop open.
Alchemy Tea has not announced a closure date, but emphasized that the coming weeks will be critical.
Martin also encouraged other small businesses to stand together during this difficult time.
"It's not just Alchemy. It's the whole entire downtown that we all desperately need our community to show up for us."
