For Immediate Release | April 3, 2025
DUFFERIN ON: The Dufferin Board of Trade (DBOT) is pleased to announce the results of its 2025 Annual Business Survey, which saw a 15% increase in participation, with 125 local businesses sharing their insights on business confidence, growth, and economic challenges.
This year’s survey highlights steady business confidence, with respondents rating their 2024 performance at a median score of 6, a trend that continues for 2025 projections. However, rising costs due to inflation remain the top concern, cited by 65% of businesses, followed by declining consumer confidence and reduced spending, which jumped sharply to 41%, up from just 15% last year.
Despite economic pressures, nearly half of businesses (46%) have made expansion and growth a top priority for the coming year. However, 40% are focusing on reducing operating costs, reflecting a cautious approach amid financial uncertainties. The availability of affordable housing has emerged as the most important factor for Dufferin’s economic growth, with 50% of respondents identifying it as a key driver.
New U.S. tariffs have sparked concern, with nearly half of respondents (47%) rating their potential impact between 1 and 4 on a 10-point scale, indicating a largely negative sentiment. Meanwhile, 25% of businesses expressed uncertainty, rating the impact as neutral.
The full Dufferin Business Survey Report is now available, providing detailed insights into local business trends and challenges. These findings will help inform DBOT’s advocacy efforts and strategic initiatives to support the Dufferin business community.
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About the Dufferin Board of Trade (DBOT):
The Dufferin Board of Trade is a grassroots, nonprofit organization committed to promoting and enhancing local businesses in the Dufferin region. Through events, advocacy, and community engagement, DBOT strives to create an environment conducive to the success and growth of businesses in the area.
For Media Inquiries: For Data or Survey-Related Inquiries:
Jaemilyn Gavino, Communications Manager
Dufferin Board of Trade
[email protected] | 519-941-0490 x 204
For Data or Survey-Related Inquiries:
Diana Morris, Executive Director
Dufferin Board of Trade
[email protected] | 519-941-0490 x 202
For more information and to access the full report, visit www.dufferinbot.ca/advocate