Swedesboro’s Economic Development Committee announced Marie Corey of Swedesboro as the winner of its “Take 10” Survey Sweepstakes. Mrs. Corey was chosen through a random drawing and awarded $140 worth of gift certificates to various Swedesboro businesses.
“I was shocked to find out that I won. I never win anything,” Mrs. Corey said as she was handed an assortment of gift cards to businesses throughout Swedesboro.
Mrs. Corey was among over 100 individuals who took part in a survey to gauge the interest and outlook of residents as to what kind of businesses they would like to see downtown. “Being here all my life I remember when Swedesboro used to be the hub of the area with a movie theater, bowling alley and a whole lot happening,” Corey said. “As a lifelong resident of Swedesboro and Woolwich I felt it was my obligation to take part in the survey and help the town move forward.”
The online survey was open for participation during a two month time period this winter. Residents were notified via mailers, the New Town Press, the Borough’s website, and social networking. The goal of the survey was to get the views of residents and local consumers on what types of shopping and entertainment establishments would work best in town.
Spark Creative Group, a branding and redevelopment communications firm in Collingswood, NJ, conducted the survey and is compiling the results on behalf of the SEDC.
“The insight that this data provides is invaluable,” says Chris Rocco, Managing Partner of Spark Creative Group. “It will be a compass to existing and interested businesses by defining the demand for particular products and services. The results are also helpful in guiding property owners as they seek out the best potential matches for their properties.”
Swedesboro was recently awarded a grant for $50,000 by Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC). The grant will be used to develop and implement an extensive strategic marketing plan for the Swedesboro Central Business District. The plan will be designed to ensure a marketing and business recruitment strategy is in place to maintain a viable and dynamic business district.
Swedesboro Councilwoman Diane Hale said, “The first step of our marketing plan was to have the community fill out the survey, so thank you to all who participated. Your input is very important to us. Swedesboro Economic Development Committee now has an idea of what type of businesses our residents and neighboring communities would patronize and support. This information will help us target specific businesses in our future recruitment efforts.”
Didn’t get a chance to participate in the survey? You could still have a chance to voice your opinions through future “town hall” meetings to be conducted by Spark Creative Group, Swedesboro’s new Facebook page, or by clicking here to contact the Swedesboro Economic Development Committee.