Local Businesses Unite at Trade Nassau

People may wonder how Long Island businesses are managing to stay afloat during these tough economic times. 

If you were at Tuesday's jam-packed  show, an event produced by the Cardinal Trade Group at the Crest Hollow Country Club, you could have learned just how important networking and building relationships is for almost every business.

"I think the economy is hurting still," said Vicki Colacicco, who was on hand respresenting Scotto Brothers, a Woodbury-based hospitality group. "And that's why it's so important to be here today."

Aside from the countless opportunities to network and connect, the event also included seminars and educational programs, and a speed networking program to rapidly promote your business.  County Executive Ed Mangano was also on hand at Tuesday to lend his support.

"It's a lot of local businesses, just trying to raise awareness," Colacicco said. "It's all very useful stuff."

In addition, those who attended Trade Nassau and contributed two non-perishable food items at the door were be entered into a prize drawing, and part of the proceeds from the event will go to support Island Harvest.  

Colacicco said Scotto Brothers has been around for a while, but that it was still important for them to be in attendance Tuesday for several reasons. 

"A lot of people know us, but don't know what's new," said Colacicco. " It's very helpful seeing what's available to you and your business, and to stay current with trends."

Ralph Bianculli, CEO of the Syosset-based Paradigm Group, a supply chain service provider, were on hand Tuesday. The company, located in Syosset for the past 10 years,  offers more than 140 products, and Tuesday they displayed an assortment of their environmentally-friendly products such as "tree-free" tissues.

"It's fast becoming a recognizable product," said Bianculli, who added that his company has spent three years developing the brand. "And the price is comparable to regular tissue prices."

Bianculli said he was impressed with the turnout Tuesday, and emphasized the importance of Long Island businesses helping each other out. 

"Long Island companies should recognize other Long Island companies," Bianculli explained. "Nassau County alone has more than 160,000 businesses - we need to keep the flow of capital here, and keep small businesses vibrant in the marketplace."

Taking a look around at the Crest Hollow Country Club Tuesday, you could tell that companies got the memo.

"This  is indicative of how small businesses need to network among themselves," Bianculli said.