Chamber of Commerce for Greater Moncton (CCGM) CEO John Wishart says 2019 was outstanding and there’s lots of momentum heading into this year.
A recent survey of chamber members found most are optimistic about 2020.
He notes how 84 percent believe the region has ‘positive’ or ‘very positive’ economic conditions.
“It is becoming more evident that Greater Moncton is the economic engine of the province,” Wishart said.” Business people in our region have confidence in what is happening here, they believe in their ability to grow their business, but also to continue this wave of success that propels the region and the province.”
But Wishart adds the biggest challenge identified by 35 percent of businesses was difficulty in finding employees with the right labour skills.
Immigration has been key for population growth and Wishart says most members believe the region’s new immigration strategy is a positive step forward.
The business community also noted how the biggest provincial priorities in 2020 should be investing in health care and education along with growing the population and attracting more immigrants.
The survey, conducted over a two-week period (25 Nov-6 Dec, 2019), elicited responses from 206 CCGM members.
