Perhaps overlooked during a ribbon-cutting Thursday in Hoboken, one that gushed about all of the amenities of Unilever’s new headquarters and how it will impact the global consumer packing giant, was this nugget: The move was a big vote for the town of just two square miles, too.
Unilever CEO Herrish Patel said the vibe of the city matched the atmosphere he wanted for his workplace.
“We wanted proximity to where trends and culture come alive,” he said.
And while Hoboken obviously always has been across the river from New York City, it hasn’t always been such a desirable location for business. That appears to have changed.
Ravi Bhalla, elected mayor in 2017 after serving on the city council since 2009, has led efforts to transform the city into a welcoming environment for businesses and, just as important, residents.
His efforts to increase bike lanes are everywhere. And reducing the speed limit to 20 mph as part of the city’s Vision Zero goals has dramatically increased the safety of pedestrians.
Then there are the efforts to create a more sustainable community, one better able to handle climate change, that has keyed the city’s Rebuild by Design program since it was ravished by Superstorm Sandy.
Change of address … change of culture
How move to Hoboken will help transform Unilever. Click here for story.
Patel said all of these efforts made Hoboken more attractive.
“The mayor has dedicated his time and his passion to this community, focusing on infrastructure, public safety, environmental sustainability, but his true love for this area is clearly visible in the impact that you have,” he said while introducing Bhalla.
Bhalla returned the compliments.
After noting the move will bring hundreds of jobs and support for the economy, Bhalla said the bigger win comes in the shared vision.
“(The move) strengthens Hoboken role as a business and cultural hub, reinforcing our position as a center of modern industry and innovation, but this milestone isn’t just about
business, it’s about shared values,” he said. “Unilever’s global vision and goals in sustainability and social impact align closely with Hoboken own commitment to environmental stewardship, resiliency and inclusive growth.”
Gov. Phil Murphy couldn’t agree more – and couldn’t agree more that Hoboken was not always like this.
He told a tale of how it was a pass-through stop on his commute home in the early 80s, when he was a summer associate on Wall Street – a young intern who spent a few scary nights on benches in the train station when he missed the last connection home.
“I have security now; I could have used it then,” he joked.
Times have changed. A town once only known for bars (and Sinatra) is now being seen as a hub for business, Murphy said.
“This city has transformed,” he said. “It is extraordinary. It is the ultimate American Dream story.
“(Hoboken) is probably in the top handful of communities in the entire country. Never mind New Jersey. You talk about a one plus one equals three result, and that’s what today is all about.”
Bhalla hopes there are more days like this – and more companies view Hoboken in the same way Unilever does.
“Unilever’s decision reflects what all of us already know,” he said. “Hoboken is a dynamic, forward-thinking community with a thriving economy, access to top-tier talent and a quality of life that is second to none.”
Having Unilever will not accentuate the point.
“It is one of the world’s largest and most respected companies, known for its trusted brands and forward-looking values,” he said. “Their choice to make Hoboken their home is a powerful vote of confidence in our city’s future.”
