Economy

Opinion

A cakewalk for lawmakers, a crackdown on workers, businesses

With bans on vape and hemp products, Alabama lawmakers staged a performative session that punished small businesses, ignored veterans, and catered to lobbyists.

Bill Britt

/

May 14, 2025

Poll: Trump voters back vape access, reject Biden rules, as Alabama ban sparks backlash

New Conway poll shows strong support for FDA reform, small business protections, and reversing Alabama-style bans targeting convenience stores.

Bill Britt

/

May 13, 2025

Third Alabama Starbucks votes to unionize in Huntsville

With an 8-2 vote, a Starbucks in Huntsville became the third in the state to unionize and the 586th nationwide.

Chance Phillips

/

May 13, 2025

Gov. Ivey salutes Alabama exporters with Trade Excellence Awards

The awards honor companies whose global achievements are elevating Alabama’s economy.

May 8, 2025

Alabama launches Development Fund to drive long-term economic growth

The new initiative will offer sustainable funding for jobs, rural revitalization, and site readiness.

May 5, 2025

Gov. Ivey proclaims National Small Business Week in Alabama

Alabama’s small businesses account for 99.4 percent of all businesses in the state, employing 46.7 percent of the private sector workforce.

May 5, 2025

Huntsville Starbucks workers file for a union election

APR spoke with two baristas about their experiences at the Huntsville Starbucks location and why they want to unionize.

Chance Phillips

/

April 29, 2025

March 2025 Alabama Economic and Real Estate Report

Alabama’s 6,214 home sales in March represented an increase of 1,171 over February, a 5.6 percent rise month-over-month and an impressive 23.2 percent boost year-over-year.

April 22, 2025

Birmingham Starbucks workers describe a concerted anti-union campaign

Baristas said the district manager has illegally punished workers for wearing union pins, neglected worker safety, and contributed to understaffing.

Chance Phillips

/

April 21, 2025