South Jersey, December 23, 2025
In 2025, South Jersey underwent significant changes in its business environment, with notable openings such as the ShopRite of Cherrywood Plaza and the return of Roy Rogers restaurants. Key developments included the Trout National Reserve golf course and the expansion of the Atlantic Coast Logistics Center, while the region faced closures including Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant and Bob’s Stores. These shifts reflect efforts to modernize and diversify the local economy, showcasing both new ventures and challenges in the retail landscape.
Major Business Openings, Closings, and Developments in South Jersey in 2025
Throughout 2025, South Jersey experienced significant shifts in its business landscape, marked by notable openings, closures, and developments that have reshaped the region’s economic and commercial environment.
Key Business Openings and Developments
- ShopRite of Cherrywood Plaza Grand Opening: In early 2025, the new ShopRite of Cherrywood Plaza opened its doors, offering a modern shopping experience to local residents. The grand opening event attracted a large crowd, highlighting the community’s enthusiasm for the new addition.
- Roy Rogers Restaurant Returns to South Jersey: After a hiatus since the 1990s, Roy Rogers restaurants made a comeback in South Jersey with the opening of a new location, catering to both nostalgic patrons and new customers.
- Trout National Reserve Golf Course in Vineland: A collaboration between MLB star Mike Trout, Tiger Woods, and local entrepreneur John Ruga led to the development of the Trout National Reserve, an 18-hole golf course in Vineland. The project also includes a performance training center, a 35,000-square-foot clubhouse, and seven private lodges, with an anticipated opening in 2025.
- Madison Hotel Wildwood Crest Renovation: Madison Resorts completed a $20 million renovation of the Oceanview Motel and the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Wildwood Crest, reopening them as the Madison Hotel Wildwood Crest. The project preserved the mid-century “Doo Wop” vibe while updating amenities to attract modern travelers.
- Atlantic Coast Logistics Center Expansion: Atlantic County advanced its aviation capabilities with the development of the Atlantic Coast Logistics Center, a 3.5 million-square-foot cargo facility adjacent to the Atlantic City International Airport. This expansion aims to diversify the county’s economy and create additional industries beyond hospitality and gaming.
Notable Business Closures
- Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant Closes All Locations: The Mid-Atlantic chain, including the Voorhees location, abruptly closed all its remaining eateries, signaling a significant shift in the regional dining landscape.
- Bob’s Stores Shuts Down All Locations: After 70 years in business, Bob’s Stores filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and closed all 21 remaining locations, including the one in Freehold, marking the end of an era for the discount retailer.
- AAA Hobbies and Crafts Announces Closure: One of South Jersey’s premier hobby stores, AAA Hobbies and Crafts, announced that 2026 will be its last year in business, leaving a gap in the local hobbyist community.
Significant Business Developments
- Monmouth Mall Transformation: Monmouth Mall in Eatontown began converting into an open-air retail complex, featuring retail, office, and residential units. The redevelopment aims to modernize the mall and attract a diverse range of tenants.
- Freehold Raceway Mall Enhancements: Freehold Raceway Mall underwent significant renovations, including the opening of Dick’s House of Sport, which features an athletic field and other amenities. Additionally, Von Maur announced plans to open its first New Jersey location in the former Nordstrom space, with an expected opening in Fall 2027.
- Atlantic County’s Aviation Sector Growth: The National Aviation Research and Technology Park (NARTP) in Atlantic County expanded with the groundbreaking of its second building, set to be available for tenants in the fourth quarter of 2025. The park focuses on facilitating research and development in emerging aviation technologies.
Background Context
South Jersey’s business landscape in 2025 was characterized by a mix of revitalization efforts, new ventures, and the closure of longstanding establishments. The region’s economic strategies focused on diversifying industries, enhancing tourism, and modernizing retail spaces to meet evolving consumer preferences. The developments in the aviation sector, particularly in Atlantic County, underscore a strategic move towards economic diversification and technological innovation. The closures of notable businesses like Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant and Bob’s Stores reflect broader retail challenges and changing consumer behaviors. Overall, 2025 was a pivotal year for South Jersey, setting the stage for future growth and transformation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the major business openings in South Jersey in 2025?
In 2025, South Jersey saw several significant business openings, including the grand opening of the ShopRite of Cherrywood Plaza, the return of Roy Rogers restaurants to the region, and the development of the Trout National Reserve golf course in Vineland. Additionally, the Madison Hotel Wildwood Crest underwent a $20 million renovation, and the Atlantic Coast Logistics Center expanded its aviation capabilities in Atlantic County.
Which businesses closed in South Jersey in 2025?
Several notable businesses closed in South Jersey in 2025, including Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant, which closed all its remaining locations, and Bob’s Stores, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and shut down all 21 remaining locations. Additionally, AAA Hobbies and Crafts announced that 2026 would be its last year in business.
What are the significant business developments in South Jersey in 2025?
In 2025, South Jersey experienced significant business developments, including the transformation of Monmouth Mall into an open-air retail complex, the opening of Dick’s House of Sport at Freehold Raceway Mall, and the expansion of the National Aviation Research and Technology Park in Atlantic County. These developments reflect the region’s efforts to modernize and diversify its economic landscape.
Key Features of South Jersey’s Business Landscape in 2025
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Business Openings | Grand opening of ShopRite of Cherrywood Plaza, return of Roy Rogers restaurants, development of Trout National Reserve golf course, renovation of Madison Hotel Wildwood Crest, and expansion of Atlantic Coast Logistics Center. |
| Business Closures | Closure of Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant locations, Bob’s Stores filing for bankruptcy and closing all locations, and AAA Hobbies and Crafts announcing 2026 as its last year in business. |
| Business Developments | Transformation of Monmouth Mall into an open-air retail complex, opening of Dick’s House of Sport at Freehold Raceway Mall, and expansion of National Aviation Research and Technology Park in Atlantic County. |
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