Businesses in Ocean City seek Labor Day boost after sluggish summer
- The summer season in Ocean City has been marked by challenging weather, including unseasonable rain and extreme heat, impacting local businesses significantly.
- Many stores are offering discounts and preparing for increased foot traffic during the upcoming Labor Day weekend, hoping for favorable weather.
- Businesses are also gearing up for a second tourist season that extends through Thanksgiving, with various events planned to attract families.
In Ocean City, New Jersey, businesses have faced significant challenges over the summer of 2025, impacting foot traffic and revenue. The season began on a difficult note, as persistent rain led to reduced visitor numbers during May and June. Sarah Gleason from By The Sea noted a considerable drop in overall business compared to the previous year. As summer progressed, conditions improved slightly in July; however, extreme heat deterred customers from visiting the boardwalk, with visitors opting for beach activities later in the day. This led to a further decline in sales, particularly in the last two weeks leading up to Labor Day weekend. Michele Gillian, the executive director of the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, highlighted that hotel and motel vacancies were higher due to the earlier rainy weather. This seasonal downturn in tourism came at a time when local businesses were counting on a thriving summer to recuperate from past hardships. New businesses like Karma, which sells henna tattoos and souvenirs, also reported challenges due to safety concerns stemming from rip currents and impacts from Hurricane Erin lingering off the coast. As the Labor Day weekend approaches, business owners like Mayleen Madera from Karma express hope that families will come out in droves to enjoy the festivities, potentially increasing foot traffic and revenue. Discounts are being offered to encourage shopping, with businesses recognizing that their efforts to attract visitors could have positive implications for subsequent seasons. Ocean City, alongside other shore points, is also preparing for what they refer to as the 'second season,' which runs from Labor Day until Thanksgiving, creating events every weekend in hopes of drawing more tourists. All eyes are now on the forecast, as business owners await nice weather that could influence visitor turnout over the long weekend. Their hopes are tethered to the possibility of improved sales during these crucial days, reflecting the ongoing unpredictability businesses face due to weather conditions and other factors. The outcome of this weekend could be pivotal for many local establishments reliant on the late summer influx of tourists.