HOBOKEN BUSINESS ALLIANCE LAUNCHES ONLINE LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY AHEAD OF SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

The Interactive Online Map Allows Users to Customize Their Search By Category and Keywords to Make Shopping and Dining Locally Even Easier this Holiday Season

HOBOKEN, N.J., (November 23, 2020) – Today, the Hoboken Business Alliance (HBA) launched early access to the new interactive Business Directory map integrated on its website, just in time to shop locally for Small Business Saturday and support local businesses throughout the holiday season. With the option to search by category, keyword, indoor or outdoor dining preference, and map location, the HBA Business Directory is the first place to visit when shopping or dining locally in Hoboken. Each business listing in the Directory will include and continue to be updated with a description and important information, such as location, a website link, and any current business specials or offerings.

“As we head into the holiday season, we need to continue to show up and support the local businesses we love. The launch of this new, interactive tool comes at the perfect time ahead of Small Business Saturday to make it even easier for business owners to connect with customers, and for everyone to discover the many hidden gems of Hoboken,” said Gregory Dell’Aquila, President of the Hoboken Business Alliance. “With the ability to search by categories like Food and Drink, Beauty, Entertainment and more, it is now so much easier to navigate and plan for every Hoboken excursion this holiday season.”

Shopping and dining locally is not the only way to help small businesses thrive. According to the recent American Express Shop Small Impact study, positive endorsements and engagement on social media may be worth an estimated $197 billion for the U.S. small business economy. With 89% of consumers being influenced to shop at small businesses, those in their networks have recommended, leaving a review or a positive mention can have a huge impact on businesses’ bottom lines. This continues to be the focus of HBA’s social media efforts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, especially over the holiday season.

Support Local Businesses

For those searching for the perfect holiday gift or a restaurant fit for a special meal or occasion, customers can easily discover exactly what they are looking for along with information and promotions for each business, all in one spot.

• Special Deals for Gift-Givers: Whether shopping for loved ones or yourself this holiday season, users can search by category in the Directory to automatically curate a list of businesses best suited for their shopping needs. Giving Hoboken residents and visitors even more reason to shop locally, many places are offering special discounts and Small Business Saturday promotions, with full details for each promotion listed directly on each respective HBA Directory business page.

• Warm and Festive Dining: Use the Directory to search by Outdoor Dining to discover which favorite Hoboken restaurants are offering safe and warm outdoor seating options throughout the holiday season. Check out all the restaurants that have everything from individual pod setups to table heaters and single-use blankets ready so customers can have the very best experience while eating outdoors in the colder months.

• Spread the Love: Many small businesses are on social media, making it easy to follow and support digitally as well. From tagging to sharing and reviewing, spreading the love across social platforms is a no-cost way to provide even more value to beloved small businesses and recommend to an even larger community.

“We have had the pleasure of being a part of and sharing our family recipes with the Hoboken community for more than eight decades. We’ve watched this small and special city transform over the years, but it never ceases to amaze us just how supportive the residents, fellow business owners, and visitors continue to be, especially in times of need,” said Grace Scanclipore and Nick De Palma, Owners of Leo’s Grandevous. “While this year has been difficult for many, the support of our customers is always what carries us through. We wish health and happiness to everyone, and hope to give our thanks while serving all of you this holiday season.”

During a time when small businesses need help most, the HBA is committed to supporting the local Hoboken community, continuously rolling out new offerings and programs to encourage shopping locally. With one convenient spot to find information on everything from the latest COVID-19 legislation to business applications, local Hoboken happenings, and more, the HBA website serves as a valuable resource for business owners to stay connected with the community and its customers.

To find the most up-to-date information, visit hobokenbusinessalliance.com, or follow Hoboken Business Alliance on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

ABOUT HOBOKEN BUSINESS ALLIANCE

The Hoboken Business Alliance (HBA), a Special Improvement District created by the Office of the Mayor and City Council, is committed to supporting the local Hoboken community. The HBA was formed to improve the district’s area and stimulate business in Hoboken. The HBA is here to ensure a safe, accessible, and prosperous business district that attracts residents and visitors to shop, eat, play, and stay in Hoboken. Visit www.hobokenbusinessalliance.com for more information.