Message from Councilmember Ellen Zimmerman | August 22, 2025
While we are all enjoying these beautiful days of summer, it is the ideal time for local business owners to plan for the fall and for the coming year, building new relationships with government and fellow entrepreneurs who share in a commitment to growth.
A strategic target should be the sixth-annual Union County Means Business (UCMB) Expo, to be held this year on Wednesday, Sept. 10 at Warinanco Sports Center in Roselle. If you are a business owner in Scotch Plains, or looking to network into new areas of opportunity, this is where you want to be.
The event, sponsored by Union County, is being publicized as a place to fuel energy, ideas and ambition that support our community’s economy. I envision this expo, from 5-7:30 p.m., as an important space where Scotch Plains’ business owners and community partners can share ideas on a larger stage and make connections that can strengthen our commercial corridors on Route 22, Terrill Road, East Second Street and Park Avenue.
Established in 2016, the UCMB Expo was created as a networking event for local businesses to expand their networks, promote their services, and identify new growth opportunities right here. It is both a learning and relationship-building investment that can yield lasting professional and community benefits, making it a valuable addition to any growth strategy.
It is free to attend the event; anyone with an interest in launching or growing a business is urged to attend, observe and network with exhibitors.
And, speaking of exhibitors, the expo is both a smart and affordable way to market. Tables are available for only a $100 and include a color advertisement in the Expo program and 10 VIP raffle tickets for a prize drawing.
Last year, there were 100 vendors registered, including such diverse businesses as the Township of Scotch Plains, banks, chambers of commerce, local colleges, dentists, caterers, fitness instructors, health care systems, school districts, cellular companies and many more.
Each year, these types of exhibitors showcase the latest products, services, and innovations, giving attendees firsthand insight into emerging trends, competitive offerings, and best practices within their respective fields.
Exhibitor setup will begin at 2:30 p.m., allowing ample time to prepare and engage with attendees promptly at the event’s start. All exhibitors must register by September 1 to participate.
Doors open at 5 p.m., with free tastings from the Warinanco Sports Center’s menu.
Whether you’re looking to grow your business, strengthen partnerships, or reach new audiences, start thinking now about how you will participate in the UCMB Expo.
The Union County Means Business initiative is spearheaded by the Union County Board of County Commissioners in partnership with local chambers of commerce, community-based organizations, and higher education institutions.
For more information, please contact Jeff Brooks at 908-659-7412 or
