“In NJBIA’s 67th Annual Business Outlook Survey, the two most apparent challenges for New Jersey businesses in 2025 were validated.
On a national level, tariffs, or the uncertainty around them, proved difficult for some. And on a statewide front, rampant energy cost increases also served as a strong and largely unexpected deterrent to profits.”
- “77% of the 569 respondents, either business owners or upper-level managerial level staff, said they were substantially (32%) or moderately (45%) impacted by increased energy costs in 2025.”
- “49% of respondents said tariffs impacted their supply chains in 2025.”
- “49% of businesses claimed they were challenged in finding staffing in 2025. That’s compared to 55% in each of the two previous years, and 70% in 2022 due to a pandemic hangover.”
- “In 2025, 17% increased hiring – down from 20% in 2024 and 23% in 2023. Another 19% decreased hiring.”
- “In 2025, only 30% of respondents reported profits for the year. At the same time, and for a second straight year, 45% reported a loss.”
Read the full readout at https://njbia.org/njbia-67th-business-outlook-survey-increased-energy-costs-tariffs-further-njs-business-affordability-malaise/
