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Hudson Barter Exchange Celebrates 10th Anniversary

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December 3, 2018

Demonstrating the popularity and extent of organized barter in the Hudson Valley, more than 300 business owners and professionals gathered in early November to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Hudson Barter Exchange (HBX). HBX founders Karen Brown, who is also a trustee of Tarrytown, and Kevin Brown, a The Hudson Independent Editorial Board member, hosted a mega-networking event for Tri-State area business owners and professionals.

HBX members and other business networkers were treated to an event at the Belvedere Estate in Tarrytown that just recently became available as an event venue. All aspects of the event were bartered by HBX member companies: from invitations, event planning, party rentals and lighting to locally produced wine, beer and catering from two top-notch companies.

“The event not only demonstrated the networking opportunities of a barter exchange, it also demonstrated its power, as 90% of the event was bartered. We have come a long way since the early days when so many companies took a leap of faith. Twenty million dollars-worth of trading later, we are thrilled to represent professionals in every imaginable business segment including some of the biggest companies in the area,” Karen Brown said.

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HBX connects business owners to new customers and service providers. Unlike other business networking organizations that owners join to seek new business, HBX’s staff of Certified Trade Brokers actively make sales for member businesses by introducing them to other members who provide the goods and services they need. Members do not trade directly but are paid in barter bucks that they use to pay anyone else in the barter system.

Businesses large and small use trade to optimize their bottom line and cash flow. Any firm not working at 100% of capacity can leverage its open appointment slots, employee down-time, unsold inventory and even vacation homes, time shares and tickets it can’t use for products and services needed. “Business owners work tirelessly so they can get what money can buy, but sometimes, you don’t need money …you buy it with your product, expertise and talent,” the Browns proclaimed in their address to guests.

Hudson Barter was lauded for its innovation by Elmsford Mayor Robert Williams and Greenburgh Supervisor Paul Feiner, who each proclaimed November 8 Hudson Barter Exchange Day. Also, New York State Assemblyman Thomas Abinanti presented a New York State Assembly Citation recognizing the accomplishments of Hudson Barter Exchange.

There are more than 500 independent trade exchanges across the country and around the world, many of whom work together through Universal Currency. In 2017, HBX was the ninth largest trader in that network. HBX is a member of the International Reciprocal Trade Association and has an A rating with the Better Business Bureau. To find out more about barter and HBX, go to www.hudsonbarterexchange.com.

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