NYC Small Businesses Endure Winter Slowdown

Neighborhood shops stay open despite harsh weather, as City Hall signals reforms to ease small business burdens.

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

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New York City small business owners are reporting a drop in revenue after a recent winter storm, even as they remained open to serve their communities. Meanwhile, the city's new Small Business Services Commissioner has been tasked with reducing regulatory burdens on local entrepreneurs.

Why it matters

Small businesses are the backbone of New York City's economy, but they often face significant challenges from unpredictable weather, fluctuating sales, and rising costs. The city's efforts to streamline rules and fees could provide much-needed relief to struggling neighborhood shops.

The details

Stores like Village Supplements in East Village and Gasia Masala & Burger in Astoria stayed open during the recent winter storm, but saw a decline in foot traffic and revenue. Managers say that when nearby businesses close, it impacts the entire community. Meanwhile, Mayor Zohran Mamdani has appointed a new Small Business Services Commissioner, Kenny Minaya, with a mandate to reduce regulatory burdens on local entrepreneurs.

  • One week after a winter storm hit New York City, small businesses are still feeling the financial impact.
  • Mayor Mamdani recently announced his broader agenda to support small businesses.

The players

Ashton Negrin

The manager of Village Supplements in East Village.

Kenny Minaya

The newly appointed Small Business Services Commissioner for New York City, tasked with reducing regulatory burdens on small businesses.

Zohran Mamdani

The Mayor of New York City, who has directed city agencies to review regulations and identify ways to reduce fines and fees for small businesses.

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What they’re saying

“Winter is a hard time for many people. Village Supplements can be a highlight in someone's day. We're that place where everyone knows your name.”

— Ashton Negrin, Manager, Village Supplements (Patch.com)

“As the son of immigrant small business owners, I know firsthand the challenges that our entrepreneurs face.”

— Kenny Minaya, Small Business Services Commissioner (Patch.com)

“Small businesses are the lifeblood of New York City.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City (Patch.com)

What’s next

The new Small Business Services Commissioner, Kenny Minaya, will be working to implement the mayor's agenda to reduce regulatory burdens on small businesses in the coming months.

The takeaway

This story highlights the resilience of New York City's small businesses, who continue to serve their communities despite facing significant challenges from harsh weather and economic pressures. The city's efforts to streamline rules and fees could provide much-needed relief, allowing these local entrepreneurs to thrive.