Hackensack's Main Street Business Alliance names new executive director

Kimberly Redmond//March 27, 2023

A new executive director is taking the reins of the Main Street Business Alliance in Hackensack.

In a March 21 press release, the organization – also known as The Sack Business Alliance (SBA) – announced the appointment of John Peters, an entrepreneur and executive with decades of experience in business, tourism and technology.

John Peters, executive director of the Downtown Hackensack Special Improvement District — Peters

Prior to joining the SBA, Peters built and successfully sold two companies, including a technology firm acquired by Chicago-based Rand McNally and an international tourism business bought by media company Far & Wide. Peters also headed up companies of varying sizes, including in the role of president of travel media at USA Today, where he oversaw a team of nearly 100 employees and increased the travel section’s ranking to the fourth most popular travel information website on the internet, according to the press release.

As executive director of the special improvement district, Peters will lead the alliance in its mission to improve the local economy and overall business climate in the city.

Formed 18 years ago as a public-private partnership between the business community and city, the SBA is focused on revitalizing the city’s downtown into a 24-hour destination for business, arts, culture, dining and other special events.

The district – which extends along Main Street from Clinton Place to Sussex Street – encompasses 160 properties and more than 375 businesses. It is governed by an 11-person board elected by members of the district, along with liaisons from the city council, public library and regional chamber of commerce.

Peters – who will report to the board – said in a statement, “I look forward to collaborating with the businesses, residents, and city of Hackensack to continue the alliance’s successes. So much great work has already been done, and there’s so much more potential to continue to transform the district into a thriving community for all to enjoy.”

Board members praised Peters’ experience, saying they’re confident he will help the SBA continue its efforts to make Hackensack a top destination in Bergen County.

“John is not only extremely talented, but he’s outgoing, approachable, and understands the value of relationships and strategic partnerships,” said Eric Anderson, vice chairman of the alliance and CEO of Alexander Anderson Real Estate Group.

Jason Some, owner of Some’s Uniforms Inc. and secretary of the alliance, described Peters as “basically a startup business guy, so he’s happy to jump into the weeds, roll up his sleeves, and do the work to make things happen.” He added, “Plus, he’s got a lot of energy, and he’s fun to work with.”