Thought Leaders Answer

On Feb 11, 2026

The New Jersey Business & Industry Association’s Board of Trustees members come from diverse industries that represent the melting pot of business in the Garden State. In this monthly series, these Thought Leaders discuss trending issues in their respective fields and how their companies are adapting to continuous change.

Denise Beckson, VP & Chief Administrative & External Affairs Officer, Morey’s Piers

How is Morey’s Pier responding to shifting trends in tourism in 2026?

Trends shaping the amusement and summer tourism industry include a strong demand for experience-driven travel, particularly nostalgic, family-friendly, and multi-generational vacations.

At the same time, drive-to tourism and value sensitivity remain important as travel costs rise, making regional destinations more attractive. Operationally, the industry continues to face labor constraints and regulatory complexity, which are influencing staffing strategies, wage structures, and long-term planning. Finally, technology adoption has become a baseline expectation rather than a differentiator.

We are aligning with these trends by reinforcing our role as a classic, experience-based destination. We continue to invest in attractions, food and beverage offerings, special events, and the overall boardwalk atmosphere. We are also focused on maintaining a strong value proposition through flexible ticket options, bundled offerings, and pricing strategies that reflect guests’ sensitivity to costs. We are addressing workforce challenges through competitive compensation, seasonal housing solutions, and international staffing programs.

Bernie Corrigan, President, IBEW Local 102

How do you see the expansion of the data center market impacting the energy sector in NJ?

New Jersey’s rapidly growing AI data center market has had a large impact on our recent work situation in Local 102, not to mention the state’s broader economy. AI data centers require massive amounts of stable, high-quality power. The state that wins the race toward providing stable, cost-effective power will open the doors to new business. Modernizing the grid through increased capacity and improved transmission will ensure that these facilities can operate without interruption.

Better reliability directly reduces downtime risks and makes New Jersey more attractive to companies seeking to build or expand here. The economic effects extend well beyond the data centers themselves. Grid upgrades stimulate construction and overall job creation. A more robust grid also reduces outage costs for the entire economy.

Overall, we need to work with all stakeholders to develop a more resilient grid; it simply enhances the state’s long-term competitiveness.

To access more business news, visit NJB News Now.

Related Articles: