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Jonathan Todd, Partner, Benesch Friedlander Coplan & Aronoff LLP
Jonathan Todd is a Partner at the law firm Benesch. He is a national authority on supply chain management, transportation and logistics, and international trade matters. His clients include manufacturers, retailers, technology companies, and transportation providers of all modes. He is a Certified Fellow with the Association for Supply Chain Management and holds both a graduate degree in supply chain management and a customs broker license in addition to his law license.
What are the most pressing trade and tariff-related challenges currently facing the flexible packaging industry, and how can businesses best navigate them?
My presentation will share how to think about the present and future of our US tariff environment. Landed cost of goods is the number one concern for importers today. Sourcing from across most of the world is higher cost than it was just a short time ago. This impacts our purchase agreements and also the terms we use when we sell to our customers. Behind all of this is a very real challenge of regulatory compliance. The stakes are very high today and enforcement risk is mounting. Balancing the need to stay compliant with the need to manage costs is the supreme challenge of 2025.
What practical tools or approaches would you recommend for companies looking to stay compliant and resilient amid shifting global trade dynamics?
Savvy businesses must be very practical today. Awareness is key because many decisions have become tactical. We work with clients to validate costs, HTS codes, dutiable value, and which tariff programs are in play. We also help clients to consider future strategic alternatives to international sourcing that may help to lawfully mitigate duty burden or manage cashflow. Knowing your risks, and your options, are fundamental to navigating supply chain challenges in this new era.
You will be speaking at the Stretch and Shrink Film event, could you share a little preview of what you will be talking about and what you are looking forward to?
We will level-set so that the audience understands the state of tariff programs RIGHT NOW. We have new programs coming down the road and US Supreme Court cases that will impact how things progress. Audience members will get a grip on the present and leave with an understanding of things to avoid, how to prepare for 2026, and some options that may help to reduce risk and lower cost.
What are you most looking forward to at this event, and why do you think it’s important for the industry to come together at forums like this?
It is so important to meet in person with fellow industry members. This is how you learn best practices, connect with suppliers and customers, and refine your business as well as career. Nothing is better than immersion at these events, knowing you left with everything you need to go back home and compete in ways that make your company stronger!