Merit Budget Survey for 2009

As many of you are evaluating merit increases in the current economic market, we thought it might be helpful to share data regarding average merit increases for 2009. Below are budgeted merit increase percentages anticipated for 2009, along with promotion percent. Thank you for your quick responses. I hope you find this information helpful.

• 23 Companies participated:
• 14 Companies reported a merit budget at 3.9% average
• 8 companies reported adjustment budget at 2.1% average
• 21 companies reported total budget at 5.7% average
• 2 companies reported no increases

Holiday Closure Survey

How many BEDC-member companies are planning a holiday shutdown for the week between Christmas and New Year's?
Thanks to all who responded to my question on holiday closures for the week between Christmas and New Year's. And the survey says....

42 total responses
22 yes
20 no
1 maybe

Of those who are closing, the vast majority are requiring employees to use vacation or PTO for at least three days that week (Dec 29-31). A few companies will be open again on Friday, January 2nd, but most who are closed that week are closed for the entire week.