Uptown Spa Expands, Doubles Capacity

In a down economy, when many businesses are proceeding cautiously, is expanding. The Hoboken franchise of the national chain located at 1170 Maxwell Lane recently completed a major expansion, increasing from 9 to 17 rooms.

Co-owner Rafael Pacheco said the project, which began during the beginning of fall, was completed over the past week.

“Before we had to turn away customers, so we had a need to expand,” Pacheco said. “The space next door wasn't being used so we took it.”

The spa offers therapeutic massages and skin facials. The expansion includes three new rooms for facials, and four for massages, though each room could be interchangeable. The location has also added what is called a tranquility room with plush couches and calming music where clients can further relax after getting a massage.

Pacheco and his business partners opened their Massage Envy franchise in November 2009. Pacheco said his partners were massage enthusiasts and approached him about opening their own spa.

“It was a no-brainer. We jumped on the idea,” Pacheco said.

Pacheco and his partners scouted locations in the area for two years before finding space in Hoboken.

“Hoboken definitely fits our demographic,” he said, citing the large number of young professionals and young families who live nearby.

The location will continue its hours of operation from 8am to 10pm Monday through Saturday and 10am-8pm on Sunday.

With the expansion, Pacheco said Massage Envy is looking to hire more employees, including massage therapists and estheticians.

Coming soon: a new piano studio makes noise, and a Cuban restaurant, Italian restaurant and French bakery under construction come closer to opening.

The Business Beat covers businesses opening, closing, relocating, renovating and celebrating anniversaries in the Mile Square. Have a Hoboken related business tip? Send an email to alanskontra@hotmail.com.