GNCVB, United Airlines Announce New Initiative

The Greater Newark Convention and Visitors Bureau (GNCVB) in partnership with United Airlines has announced the launch of Shop Local in Newark. This initiative reflects United's mission of connecting people and engaging local and global communities to make a difference.

For more than two decades, United has operated a hub at Newark Liberty International Airport. Before the pandemic, United operated more than 425 daily flights to more than 160 cities across the globe from EWR, offering the New York/Newark region the most flights to the most destinations. As part of this initiative, United spotlighted five Newark-based small businesses including Off The Hanger, a luxury fashion and decor studio, in the January 2021 issue of its award-winning onboard publication, Hemispheres.

"United is the first major airline to endorse and promote the small business community in Newark," says Ricardo Salazar, Acting President and CEO of GNVCB. "United's marketing support of Newark's small business community during this critical juncture is a boost to our growing entrepreneurial sector. I'd like to personally thank GNCVB Board Director Blenda Pinto, United Airline's Director, Corporate & Government Affairs Northeast Region, who supported and recommended us to lead this effort."

"During this season of giving, we are incredibly grateful for the continuation of the great partnership between GNVCB and United Airlines," says Gregory Good, GNCVB Board Chair. "While the Coronavirus pandemic has forced us all to make adjustments, United has stepped up to promote Newark as a great place to live, work, and play with its Shop Local Newark initiative. The pandemic is bringing out the best in humanity and United's support of Newark's small business community only magnifies the significance of their partnership."

Newark has a rich tapestry of minority-owned and multi-cultural restaurants and small businesses, offering an array of unique products and international cuisine. Shop Local Newark was created to help local businesses recover some of the losses they suffered because of the COVID-19 pandemic by boosting sales throughout 2021.

"It is essential that small businesses across America survive the pandemic," said Ms. Pinto. "These storefronts are the lifeblood of our communities, and it's imperative that United leverages our strong ties to Newark to encourage our customers to shop locally and fuel the local economy. During this unprecedented time, we remain stronger together."

Shop Local Newark by engaging in practices such as wearing a mask, adhering to social distancing guidelines, and following all public health protocols. For the most up-to-date COVID-19 resources and more information, please visit newarkhappening.com.