"We saw a great business opportunity at the Ferry Terminal, and look forward to serving pretzels to even more customers."

Gina Soldo, Owner, Island Soft Pretzel Stop

Business Need

NYCEDC’s recent redevelopment of the St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island creates a more welcoming and state-of-the-art experience for travelers and Staten Island residents. A steady stream of nearly 70,000 commuters, tourists, and other ferry riders pass through the Terminal each day, with the nearby Staten Island Yankees ballpark drawing even more foot traffic. With 29,000 square feet of available retail space and new leasing opportunities, the St. George Ferry Terminal was the prime location for a local business to establish itself in the area and the terminal was in need of tenants.

Solution

Transitioning from her job as a trading assistant on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange, Gina Soldo saw a great retail opportunity at the Ferry Terminal and developed a business plan for a pretzel shop that sources from a Staten Island supplier. She leased space in the Terminal and launched Island Soft Pretzel Stop in March 2010, becoming the second newest eatery to open for business in the space. Pretzels with seasoned toppings, pretzel hot dogs with American cheese, cinnamon pretzels, and four types of mustard are among the many offerings on Island Soft Pretzel Stop’s constantly growing menu.