NJ Transit Opens New Food Vendors at Secaucus, Newark Stations To Generate Revenue

NJ Transit launched three new food vendors at Secaucus Junction and revamped a bakery at Newark Penn Station. The move is part of a plan to pull in up to $1.9 billion through non-ticket income. Cinnabon, Auntie Anne's Pretzels, and Carvel Ice Cream now occupy one spot at Secaucus Junction, while Zaro's Bakery at Newark Penn Station introduced a new Freshens concept.

A ribbon cutting happened this week. Commuters can now grab cinnamon rolls, pretzels, and ice cream at the shared space.

Newark Penn Station's Zaro's Bakery got a complete overhaul. The Freshens concept brings smoothies, grilled flatbreads, salads, and rice bowls to hungry passengers.

The transit agency wants to capitalize on its 8,000-acre property holdings. These new tenants mark another piece of that approach.

"These exciting tenants at our key stations are another way NJ TRANSIT is working to enhance the commuting experience for customers, by providing high quality options along their journey," said Gagandeep Singh, senior vice president of real estate, according to Patch. "This is another example of NJ TRANSIT's efforts to meet the travel needs of every customer, while also utilizing its assets to support non-farebox revenue."

The additions should boost what riders can get at two busy transit hubs. Secaucus Junction works as a transfer point where multiple rail lines meet, while Newark Penn Station sees thousands of passengers each day.

That $1.9 billion target? It comes from sources other than ticket sales. Leasing space to retailers and food vendors at stations throughout the system helps reach that number.

All three new vendors at Secaucus Junction opened this spring, giving travelers more picks during commutes or while they wait between trains.