Meet the Man Behind Bensalem's Business Association

Pondeli Hajioannou is not only the President of Bensalem's Business Association, but the owner of local business Philadelphia Private Gym. He first started the association in 2009 and it has expanded to include members such as Parx Casino and Holy Family University.

Bensalem Patch had the opportunity to chat with Hajioannou to talk about the association and why it began.

Why did you start the association? Who's here to help the businesses? There were 33 organizations in Bensalem. You name it. We had it. But not a business association. A week wouldn't go by where a business wouldn't close. Nobody cared about the next guy. I won't let anyone take advantage of anyone. I want to empower people. We now have a voice in our community.  

What's a perk of being a member of the business association? We use our collective energy to support businesses during development, opening and beyond. We help each other and discuss concerns.

What are meetings like? We [had] a business card exchange. We'll have a meeting where the swat team will teach you what to do if there's an active shooter in your business. We meet every month.

Who can get involved? Business owners. Managers. Decision makers.

How can you join the Bensalem Business Association? Attend the next meeting [which will be held on March 12 at AllMed on Street Road] or visit the website.

To learn more about the association, send an email to info@bensalembusiness.com to the attention of Pondeli Hajioannou, call 215-245-0802 or visit the FAQS page.

Editor's Note: Meetings are usually held the second Wednesday of the month. March's meeting, however, will be held on Tuesday, March 12.