Vermont Business Survey: Price Hikes and AI Adoption Amid Economic Strain
A survey by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce reveals that half of local businesses raised prices this year, with healthcare costs emerging as a primary operational challenge.
By Neha Kapoor ·
Half of Vermont businesses increased their prices this year, according to a survey conducted by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. The data indicates that companies are adjusting to a difficult economic environment by cutting back on growth and integrating new technology.
More than 40% of the 135 companies surveyed rated the current business climate as poor or very poor. This negative assessment represents a sharp increase compared to the previous year. Healthcare costs have become the most frequent pain point for business owners in 2026, surpassing earlier top concerns regarding workforce and housing shortages. Inflation and taxes also remained among the top five complaints.
The survey shows that one-third of businesses delayed hiring or left positions unfilled. Approximately one in four companies postponed capital investments. In contrast, just 10% of respondents said they expanded or invested in their operations in Vermont. The sentiment was particularly grim in the accommodations and food service sectors, where nearly half of the surveyed businesses reported a decline in business over the last year.
Kevin Chu, executive director of the Chamber’s pro-growth Vermont Futures Project, noted that business owners are facing similar pressures as residents. Chu stated that there is alignment between the business community and citizens regarding these affordability issues. He added that companies are currently testing artificial intelligence tools to evaluate their benefits and risks. More than 75% of surveyed businesses reported using AI, mostly in limited ways or pilot projects. Only 15% said they have no plans to use the technology.
Cross-border relations also weigh on local sentiment. Fewer than 2% of respondents described federal tariffs and tension with Canada as having a positive effect on their business. The chamber described the survey as a snapshot of business owner concerns, noting that it lacks the statistical rigor of a scientific poll.
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