1/10/2009 Bump:

For those that missed this story – please provide your (helpful) tips and suggestions to local Hoboken businesses! We do not want any empty storefronts to be replaced by giant commercial chains! I got many compliments from readers about this story – and that it was “such a great idea!”

1/8/2009:

Hoboken411 tries to paint a realistic picture of what’s transpiring in town. Business, politics, quality of life and so on. However, that doesn’t always mean doom, gloom and general negativity!

Since most of us believe we’re in some kind of economic “funk,” perhaps now would be a good time to open up the “suggestion box” and provide a source of helpful tips that we, the almighty residents (and H411 readers of course) might want to give the local businesses, whether it’s a bar, restaurant, retail shop, service company or otherwise.

hoboken-business-tips-economy.jpg

What can Hoboken businesses do to survive?

Now I’m serious here, please don’t use this particular entry to express your crude frustration or insulting zingers about a business that you are not happy with. If it’s mean-spirited or nasty, I’ll remove the comment.

This post is designed to (hopefully) provide constructive feedback and/or advice to any business or sector in Hoboken. You can name a business as long as whatever advice is genuinely meant to help them.

I’ll throw a couple snippets out there that would be considered helpful:

  • “It’d be nice if (name store here) carried lower cost items. That might help draw in some customers.”
  • “Most stores in town close too soon. Maybe if they opened at 2pm, and stayed open later – that could benefit them.”
  • “Encourage friends to shop together. Offer some kind of substantial bulk discount?”
  • “Same thing with restaurants. Encourage large groups where a chunky deal can be reached.”
  • “More places need 1/2 portions on their menu. That’ll help lower costs (and keep the weight down!)”

Additionally, if you feel there’s a niche in Hoboken that hasn’t been filled yet – mention that as well. Such as:

  • “Hoboken has many similar restaurants, and not enough ethnic food. Perhaps some places can add some spice to their menus?”
  • “We need more 24 hour places uptown. Nothing past 8th street is open late!”

With so many Hoboken411 readers living, breathing, and socializing in Hoboken – it would make sense for the local business owners to see what you have to say.

So what advice do you have?

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