Empty Shelves Becoming Reality at Major Retailers Across Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin

My family, just like yours, I'm sure, has already begun to feel the sting of increasing prices on common goods, food, and other necessities, but now a new problem is beginning to arise. Shoppers across the Midwest are starting to see empty shelves at some major retailers. Stores like Walmart, Target, and even Hy-Vee have warned that some products will become more expensive or in short supply. A recent report from Style on Main says this trend is no longer confined to isolated incidents. Rather, it's becoming a widespread issue affecting communities, large and small, throughout Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin.

The primary culprit behind these shortages is the recent escalation in U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports, which reached up to 145% in April 2025. These tariffs have since dropped, but have significantly disrupted supply chains, leading to delayed shipments and reduced product availability. Retailers, unable to absorb the increased costs, are now passing them on to consumers, resulting in higher prices and limited stock. In turn, the limited stock has caused mass sell-outs and empty shelves, as people ensure they "get theirs."

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In response to these supply chain issues and financial issues, major retailers have taken significant steps. In April, CEOs from Walmart, Target, Home Depot, and Lowe's met with President Trump to express concerns over the tariffs' impact on their operations and the broader economy. They warned that continued trade tensions could lead to more severe shortages and further strain on consumers' pocketbooks.

As of now, issues have already arisen on the coasts and in high-population areas. However, lower population and rural areas will soon see a "limiting" of common goods until a new trade deal is worked out, with rumors that Trump and Xi will be meeting soon. Other nations meeting to discuss trade deals include Japan, India, Vietnam, Thailand, and several European nations, including the UK.

Common food items that are likely to take a hit include:

• Salmon, Shrimp
• Olive Oil
• Avocados
• Chocolate
• Maple Syrup
• Basmati Rice
• Coffee
• Cheeses
• Apples

Consumers are also changing their shopping habits in response to the uncertainty. Many are prioritizing essential items, leading to increased demand for staples and further exacerbating shortages. Think back to COVID and toilet paper. Additionally, even more consumers are shopping for everyday items online and avoiding brick-and-mortar stores altogether. Retail experts predict that if current trends continue, the upcoming back-to-school shopping season could be severely impacted, with limited availability of supplies and higher prices.

READ MORE: Price Hikes Coming to Massive Retailer in Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin

Some retailers are looking at options to lessen the blow to their business and consumers. Several are exploring solutions, like diversifying their supply sources and investing in automation to improve product management. However, these measures take time to implement and will most likely not provide immediate relief.

For now, shoppers in the Tri-States should brace for incoming disruptions at their major retail centers. Planning ahead, being flexible with brand and product selection, and staying informed about your local stores' restocking schedule can help navigate this changing, and sometimes volatile, situation.