Chamber releases urgent economic analysis: Broadway strike could cost city millions daily
NEW YORK, NY – October 22, 2025 – The Manhattan Chamber of Commerce today released a critical new policy brief, "The Urgent Need to Avert a Broadway Strike," warning that a potential work stoppage on Broadway would have devastating financial consequences for New York City’s economy. The study, released as negotiations between the Broadway League and union representatives reach a critical juncture, projects that a musicians strike would result in significant daily economic losses, threatening the livelihoods of thousands of small businesses and workers beyond the theater district.
With the 2024-2025 season marking a pivotal moment in the industry's recovery, the Chamber’s analysis highlights that a shutdown now would disproportionately impact the hospitality, retail, and transportation sectors that rely on the influx of theatergoers.
Key Findings from the Policy Brief:
Massive Daily Economic Loss: Building on data from the 2007 stagehands strike—which cost the city an estimated $2 million per day—the new brief projects that current inflation and the fragile state of the post-pandemic recovery could drive these daily losses even higher: approximately $9 million per day in economic losses.
Ripple Effect on Small Businesses: For every dollar spent on a Broadway ticket, the study estimates a multiplier effect of significant spending at local restaurants, hotels, and retail shops. A strike would immediately halt this revenue stream, endangering neighborhood businesses still recovering from recent economic headwinds.
Threat to Tourism Recovery: Broadway remains a primary driver of tourism in New York City. The brief warns that uncertainty or a shutdown could lead to long-term reputational damage and a decline in future bookings for the critical holiday season.
“The findings of this brief are clear: a strike on Broadway is not just a theater issue; it is a citywide economic emergency,” said Jessica Walker, President and CEO of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce. “Our small businesses are the backbone of this city, and they cannot afford another setback. We are urging all parties to stay at the bargaining table and reach a fair resolution that keeps the lights on and our economy moving forward.”
The Chamber’s policy brief calls on the Broadway League and union leadership to prioritize a settlement that avoids disruption, citing the "catastrophic" potential of a darkened Broadway during the fall season.
To read the full policy brief, please visit: https://mcusercontent.com/ac8076338e7ab754aaaf91d30/files/d0183a77-fddd-665e-cc1c-c5e2873c716d/POLICY_BRIEF_The_Urgent_Need_to_Avert_a_Broadway_Strike_Finall2_1_.pdf