Donald Trump’s trade policies have led to a company founded by a Dragons’ Den star to downsize and relocate some operations to the United States.
Crafter’s Companion, established by TV personality Sara Davies, has been compelled to shut down its warehouse in Newton Aycliffe, Co Durham, following the transfer of 60% of its warehouse activities to the US earlier this year.
The decision to move operations to the US was triggered by alterations in import regulations imposed by the Trump administration. With the removal of the $800 de minimis exemption in August 2025, all commercial shipments entering the US are now subject to tariffs, duties, and formal customs processes, making it more challenging for UK companies to export goods to the US. As a result, Crafter’s Companion has seen 14 staff members depart the company, with more expected to leave in the coming months.
Explaining the move, a company spokesperson stated, “Due to the changes in US de minimis regulations, we shifted the majority of our warehousing and fulfillment operations to the US and downsized our UK facility. Despite efforts to maintain a presence in the UK, we have opted for a third-party logistics solution to improve customer service and operational efficiency.”
While acknowledging the job cuts, company executives anticipate challenges with US tariffs affecting other firms as well. The company is planning to create five new positions in the future. Earlier this year, Sara Davies announced that Crafter’s Companion has a new owner, Maven Capital Partners, and she remains committed to the company she founded in 2005 during her time as a business student.
Dianne Sharp, the firm’s Managing Director, expressed disappointment over the warehouse closure but remains optimistic about the company’s prospects. She affirmed, “This decision was influenced by the current situation in the US. While these are difficult choices, we believe they will not result in permanent job losses, as we plan to hire more employees in the future. We currently employ 97 individuals locally and aim to expand our workforce at the headquarters.”