by: Amy Yensi
Posted: Jan 22, 2024 / 05:04 PM EST
Updated: Jan 22, 2024 / 05:04 PM EST
THE BRONX, N.Y. (PIX11) — William Bryan is short-staffed. On some days, there’s no one to help him at his store Juice Ade in the Bronx.
He makes the cold press juices and smoothies while also working the register. But he says the effort is worth it.
“I’ve been vegan for 11 years. I feel like it’s something needed in my community,” Bryan told PIX11 News on Monday.
Bryan doesn’t have much time to even think about marketing his vegan offerings. That’s why he’s happy to have free help in that department.
“It helps a lot because it’s a seasonal business. Usually, certain seasons are better than others. The marketing does help promote it,” said Bryan.
He’s among the nearly two dozen Bronx small business owners on Southern Boulevard between 167th and 174th streets who are taking part in a cross-promotion initiative. The shops advertise neighboring stores as a way to attract foot traffic.
“The small mom-and-pops, which this commercial corridor is made for don’t have that opportunity … they don’t have the staff or resources,” said Jamila Diaz, senior program manager for community development at Women’s Housing Economic Development Corporation.
The non-profit organization, which focuses on local entrepreneurship, received a grant from the city’s Department of Small Business Services. WHEDco is using it to come up with new ways to revitalize the strip, such as creating store flyers, organizing neighborhood walking tours and investing in beautification projects.
Tania Picovelez owns a beauty salon in the area. She told PIX11 News that the shop owners have to help each other and collaborate to attract customers. Although there’s work to do, she’s confident investing in the Bronx will pay off.
WHEDco plans to host walking tours on Valentine’s Day for everyone who wants to show some local love. The event will feature store specials, samples, and surprise gifts.