New Jersey’s business landscape continues to evolve with significant openings, expansions, and high-profile projects across multiple sectors. From biotech innovation to retail revitalization and entertainment industry investment, the Garden State is asserting itself as a hub for both innovation and commerce.
ProBio Launches Gene Therapy Hub in Mercer County
ProBio, a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) specializing in gene therapy, has opened its flagship Cell and Gene Therapy Center of Excellence on the Princeton West Innovation Campus in Hopewell. The 128,000-square-foot facility is designed to manufacture specialized materials critical for developing advanced cell and gene therapies, including plasmid DNA and viral vectors using adeno-associated virus and lentiviral platforms.
The new center brings at least 110 highly skilled jobs to the Mercer County area, bolstering New Jersey’s biopharma industry and cementing its position as a leader in cutting-edge medical manufacturing. Industry observers note that ProBio’s hub will accelerate the delivery of advanced therapies to patients while strengthening the local biomanufacturing ecosystem.
Florence Antiques Dealer Supplies Hollywood
In Florence, a local antiques dealer is gaining attention for a unique business model: supplying period-specific props to Hollywood productions. Operating under the name Obnoxious Antiques, the dealer specializes in items spanning the 1930s through the 1980s, maintaining a vast warehouse for rentals and tracking down specific props for film and television clients. The store has provided key pieces for movies, TV shows, and commercials, highlighting how New Jersey businesses can carve out global niches by combining creativity with specialized expertise.
The Dog Stop Opens First New Jersey Location
Pet owners in New Jersey now have access to The Dog Stop, an all-inclusive dog care franchise that opened its first state location at 977 Valley Road in Long Hill. The 10,000-square-foot facility offers luxury boarding, interactive daycare, training, grooming, and retail services. Owned by certified dog trainer Rob Lax and former sports attorney David Weinberg, the franchise celebrated its grand opening on Saturday, September 20, with food trucks, dog treats, and community festivities. The launch reflects the growing demand for premium pet care options and provides new jobs in the area.
Norman’s Hallmark Expands to Hunterdon County
Norman’s Hallmark has opened a new 4,100-square-foot store in the Flemington Marketplace shopping center at 325 Route 202. This marks the fourth location in the Levin Management Corporation portfolio, offering the full line of greeting cards, Keepsake Ornaments, gifts, and home merchandise. The expansion provides residents of Hunterdon County with convenient access to one of the region’s most recognized gift and card retailers.
Netflix Invests in Fort Monmouth Studio
Monmouth County is preparing for a major entertainment industry boom as Netflix invests $1 billion to transform the former Fort Monmouth Army base into a sprawling film and television studio campus. The 292-acre site will feature 12 advanced soundstages, production offices, retail shops, a hotel, and public spaces. Demolition began in May 2025, with construction expected to take roughly eight years. The project is anticipated to create thousands of jobs for New Jersey residents and generate billions in economic output, further cementing the state’s position in the media and entertainment sector.
Somerset Shopping Center Undergoes Renovation and Expansion
The Somerset Shopping Center in Bridgewater, Somerset County, is undergoing significant changes with the addition of several new retailers. Among the newcomers is Boot Barn, a national western apparel chain leasing 14,200 square feet for its first Somerset County location. Other additions include Strand Salon Studios, Fred Astaire Dance Studios, and Style Brow Bar, all designed to diversify offerings and attract new customers. Existing anchors like Barnes & Noble, Gap Factory, and Norman’s Hallmark complement these new tenants, giving the shopping center a refreshed and contemporary appeal.
New Jersey’s Business Momentum
From ProBio’s cutting-edge biotech hub to Netflix’s massive studio investment, and from Hollywood prop specialists to retail expansions in Somerset and Hunterdon Counties, New Jersey is demonstrating a strong blend of innovation, creativity, and commerce. Each of these ventures not only strengthens local economies but also highlights the state’s capacity to host projects with national and international impact.
For ongoing updates on New Jersey business developments, economic trends, and company profiles, visit Explore New Jersey’s Business section.
