Hamilton Marketplace: The Future of Shopping

Mercer Business, May 01, 2006 by Roberts, Russell

"Hamilton Marketplace has been a magnet for business activity," said Ridolfi.

In fact, Ridolfi reports that commercial business activity throughout Hamilton is very strong. "Hamilton is doing exceptionally well," he said. There was some concern that Marketplace might negatively impact local businesses, but if anything Ridolfi said the reverse is true. By drawing more people to the area, it brings customers past many of the local businesses7, customers who would normally not. be in the area. "I think Marketplace has helped them [local businesses]," Ridolfi said. "I consider the business environment in Hamilton as vibrant."

He added that commercial business activity throughout Mercer County is strong, especially compared to other regions in the state. For that he credits the county's incredible diversity of education, recreation, government, and business/retail opportunities - in which Hamilton Marketplace plays a significant role. And even though gasoline prices are streaking upwards, and the prospect of higher state taxes looms, Ridolfi said that he sees no lessening of Mercer's economic engine.

"I see no slow down," he said.

On the old "Honeymooners" show of the 1950s, Ralph Kramden once played "the chef of the future" to disastrous results. The next time you're in Hamilton Marketplace, -remember that it is "the shopping center of the future" - today.