Small Business News

Another energized, entertaining and successful annual meeting and awards show of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce had ended.

The Vegan Chef challenge was organized by Vegan Outreach and Animal Defenders Greater Lehigh Valley, and the challenge drew more than 400 community reviews between Sept. 15 and Oct. 15. Winners were honored at an awards ceremony Tuesday, Nov. 4, inside Swift at the Wilbur Mansion.

The owner of A1 Quick shops plans to convert a former beauty salon in Bethlehem into a convenience store. He's also eyeing a bigger, 24/7 business venture.

Looking to better connect its downtown businesses and the patron experience, the city on Tuesday announced a weeklong celebration where the community can take part.

Longtime borough resident Jennifer O’Neill has purchased the building at 2 N. Main St. and is transforming the space into Circle Cafe on Main, a café inspired by European coffeehouses that aims to foster community connection.

Flooding and water damage has forced Clever Girl Winery, on the ground floor of the Commodore at 116 Northampton St., to shut down its Easton tasting room.

After years of turmoil, the owners and operators of vegan pizzeria Paranormal Pizza are asking the community for a couple bucks to help launch their new brick-and-mortar spot.

Garlic Fest is back, and this year promises more of everyone's favorite Allium in a wealth of savory and sweet dishes, drinks, and more, including a special preview night on Friday.

Barley Creek Brewing Company is planting roots in the Lehigh Valley, opening a taproom at the Promenade Saucon Valley. The Pocono-based brewing company expects to serve customers with "100% Pennsylvania products" this fall.

The Wilbur Mansion transforms with Swift, a rebranded dining experience in the Fountain Hill District of Bethlehem, offering seasonal menus, handmade cocktails, outside dining, and historical flair.

Easton's Zoning Hearing Board has approved a variance for parking which will allow a local woman to open up a gaming cafe where patrons can enjoy games like Dungeons and Dragons and Magic: The Gathering.

Sunday’s fatal stabbing at Synergy Hookah Lounge on Union Boulevard in Allentown was “the last straw,” the building's owner said, adding he wants the business “gone like cancer.”

The rooftop dining spot will provide views of the Forks of the Delaware and Easton and Phillipsburg at one of the city's gateways. Construction of the building has been ongoing for months. Restaurant plans include 3-season balcony outside seating.

The annual food truck festival will feature dozens of vendors selling burgers, barbecue food, ice cream, wine and craft beer.

The Small Business Council of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce recognized local businesses with Excellence in Business Awards on Wednesday at Northampton Country Club.

Cold Nose Lodge, which opened in October 2008, is expanding its location in Alburtis. They'll hold a groundbreaking party on June 26 at the facility.

As part of a broader initiative to assist small businesses in Easton recovering from the pandemic, the Business Retention Assistance of the City of Easton Program is offering grants to local businesses across the city.

Easton City Council approved amendments to the budgets for ARPA and CARES Act funds Wednesday, providing funding for community projects and small business recovery and retention.

The Weyerbacher Hill Challenge 5K is set for this weekend, with runners set to explore the hills of Easton before getting back to the brewery to enjoy some brews.

The 6th Annual Food Truck Thursday, at South Mall, will be from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. It will happen every Thursday from May 18 to Sept. 14.

An Easton man intending to open a high-end smoke shop was granted a continuance after questions arose around zoning issues related to the Northampton Street retail space's proximity to another specialty business.

Take a look at stories throughout the week of which we are most proud, had a profound impact on readers or that you might want to look at again.