(Scotch Plains, NJ) Tom Malinowski toured Scotch Plains on Sunday, visiting local small businesses, meeting with owners and employees, and hearing their concerns. He was joined by Deputy Mayor Elizabeth Stamler, and Councilman Matt Adams. Learn more about all of the stops along the tour below.
“Our local economy is strong and resilient because of our small business owners,” said Malinowski. “Having worked with our municipalities to help Main Street businesses get through the pandemic, I’ll continue to listen and to address their concerns on issues like supply chains and the labor market.”
Tom began the day at the Scotch Plains Farmers’ Market. He caught up with our local farmers, and met some new faces along the way. Residents of Scotch Plains know that John’s Meat Market is full of history! One of their top butchers showed Tom around their hallway of memorabilia, which covers their nearly 100 years in town. Tom checked in on their business, which continues to thrive amid new shops popping up.
Throughout the day, Tom was joined by Deputy Mayor Elizabeth Stamler and Councilman Matt Adams. The team stopped for lunch at Massa Pizza, an immigrant-owned Scotch Plains staple specializing in Roman Square Pizza.
Next stop on Tom’s tour was Urban Shave, where Tom met with owner, John. John expressed how despite supply chain issues, prices at his barber shop remain the same. They also discussed gas prices coming down in New Jersey, and how it will help Main Street across the country.
Conrad and Carlotta came to New Jersey from Guyana, and opened First Option Health Corner. The juice bar has been staffing-up as more, and more customers visit from neighboring towns. The pair spoke to Tom about where they source their products – Tom even ordered their signature Green Magic juice!
The final stop of the day was Savory Selections. Tom spoke with owners Jill and Felton about expanding their successful catering business to a storefront for takeout. Their soul food has been a favorite of many in the Scotch Plains community since 2009, and will soon reach a whole new audience.