Downturn Doesn't Slow Local Retailers

This holiday season everyone is looking for the cheapest and easiest way to check off all the names on their present list, with many avoiding the crowds by shopping online. Some local businesses have noticed the decline in patronage and are doing their best to keep foot traffic moving by focusing on their customers.

"In October of last year everything just fell off a cliff," said Jack Hartgers, owner of Hartgers Jewelers. But things seem to be getting back to some degree of normalcy, albeit slowly.

Hartgers Jewelers has been a Wyckoff staple for more than 25 years and is owned by the four Hartgers brothers, Dave, Jack, Bobby and Gregg. The family grew up in the township and thought that it would be a great location for a store after moving from a storefront in Manhattan. 

"We feel like we are part of the community here, and it is refreshing to see so many familiar faces around town. The customers feel like friends, and in most cases they are." 

Their upscale jewelry boutique carries name-brand jewelry and watches as well as their own unique designs. In order to prepare for the holiday rush, they have been working extra hours and stocking up on popular merchandise.

"We are not really affected by the online shopping trend," Jack Hartgers said. "The quality and service that we offer here attracts our customer base."

Susan Zwain of My Mommy Made It also believes that she has a strong level of trust with her clients. Zwain is so closely knitted with the Wyckoff community that she said, "Everyone has been through these doors at least once." 

Her personalized gift shop has been a part of the neighborhood for 15 years, and with her quality customer service, she is known by name around town.

"The best part of my job is seeing the shift from generation to generation of customers that keep coming back," Zwain said. 

However, she hasn't been immune to shopping trends. She relies on online ordering through her Web site. Doing so allows her to take orders in advance and work with customers who want to avoid multiple trips to the store.

"There is always a perpetual calendar in my shop, people always need gifts," Zwain said.

But this year she has had to make some adjustments after the economic slowdown. She explains that she has overcome the recession by keeping what she considers are store staples and sizing down her stock. "I don't rely on gimmicks, my merchandise is not frivolous but it makes you smile," she said.

Tons of Toys, another family-owned local business, also relies on return customers for the holiday season. Ken Maietta first opened his doors more than 20 years ago and decided to move to the area because he liked the promise of the Wyckoff community at the time. 

"We do our best to satisfy every customer," said Chris Brinkofski, a longtime employee. They have increased the number of employees for the season as well as their hours of operation. They also have just installed online ordering to their Web site to help out customers who are not as local. 

Brinkofski explains that the key to being prepared this holiday "is knowing what is popular and being able to anticipate customer demands."

Their large selection of name-brand toys are some of the most complete in the area, attracting many customers who cannot find these treasures in other toy shops. 

"Tons of Toys has a great atmosphere, and everyone is always in a good mood when they come into our shop," Brinkofski said.  

Tons of Toys hasn't seen much of an economic drop-off, despite the economic slowdown. Brinkofski said each customer may be spending a bit less, but they have acquired a larger customer base, which has been keeping profits relatively level.

He also has one piece of advice for all local shoppers: "Buy local and start early!"