Audible, a creator and provider of premium audio storytelling, announced Sept. 15 the upcoming opening of “The Pillars,” a retail hub in Newark at 33 Washington St., as the company continues to expand its footprint in New Jersey’s largest city.
The company has renovated the 15,000-square-foot ground floor and facade of the prominent modernist building, originally designed by architect Welton Becket, in Newark’s arts and education district, transforming the space into a hub for local businesses, visitors, and community.
The Pillars will serve as an anchor for the neighborhood, featuring a central court with Audible listening booths, and three retail spaces that blend wellness, artisanal home goods, and hand-crafted beauty products. A fourth anchor food and beverage tenant will eventually be announced and open in 2026.
Tenants will receive financial support from Audible for fit-out costs, through the company’s Business Attraction Program. This offers funding, mentorship, networking opportunities and more for retail and startup founders who have historically faced barriers to access.
Audible will host a grand opening event on Oct. 15, at 11 a.m. at 33 Washington St., featuring remarks from Audible CEO Bob Carrigan, Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka, The Pillars retail tenants and others.
“The Pillars represents a new paradigm for corporate investment in our headquarters city,” said Carrigan. “By transforming physical spaces and directly supporting local businesses with financial assistance through our Business Attraction Program, we’re building an ecosystem that sustains entrepreneurship, drives foot traffic, and celebrates community.”
Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka said, “This project is the epitome of the high-caliber innovation and community-focused development that drives Newark forward,” said Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka. “When we invest to bring new amenities to our neighborhoods while creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs, it strengthens the fabric of our whole city.”
At opening, The Pillars will feature three businesses selected for its innovative approach to retail and demonstrated commitment to community engagement:
Tansy, a woman-owned home goods and plant store, brings its unique vision of socially conscious home décor to Newark. Featuring products from local artists, charitable organizations and global sources, Tansy is dedicated to community and education, offering regular classes in plant care, terrarium building, and creative arts.
Dawn Fitch brings Pooka Pure & Simple back home to Newark with bath and body products, while unveiling The Bloom Bar — a perfume blending bar where guests learn to craft a signature scent. Fitch created Pooka after her autoimmune journey inspired a healthier lifestyle and a passion for community-centered wellness.
HealHaus, which began in Brooklyn seven years ago, is a community-focused wellness destination that prioritizes mental, physical and spiritual health. HealHaus offers daily yoga, meditation and breathwork classes, as well as specialty workshops on weekends.
Audible says The Pillars will also tap into the trend around experiential brick-and-mortar retail, with interactive offerings that meet growing customer demand for unique, tangible experiences that can’t be replicated online.
The Pillars is part of Audible’s larger neighborhood strategy that includes its 2019 restoration of the historic Innovation Cathedral and its work to help reimagine Newark’s Harriet Tubman Square.
