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Karim El-Gamal: Trail Blazer

Downtown Hudson is hip. It’s happening. If you haven’t been recently, you could almost be forgiven for not knowing that there are serious draws in the downtown which now hosts to the Rail Trail Flatbread Co., New City Microcreamery and a speakeasy that work together to set a new downtown tone.

Those three locations were all built up by El-Gamal and his family. Sarah Cressy, the president & CEO of the Assabet Valley Chamber of Commerce, points out all three locations cover customers aged 2 to 92 and create a real draw for the town.

“The rapid success of the Rail Trail Flatbread Co. clearly exemplifies heightened opportunity in Hudson’s downtown,” Cressy said.

This new food economy has highlighted the area as a foodie destination. Downtowns such as Hudson’s were built to service surrounding areas, Cressy said, and in Hudson that split had been with approximately 40 percent of people coming from surrounding communities. But with the new buzz that number has creeped up to 50 percent in Cressy’s estimation.

It is the cohesion and support that El-Gamal has created with other ventures that cements his importance to the community, with collaborations such as with Medusa Brewery.

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Q&A

What is the secret to success in Hudson?

Hudson is all about community. You have to be part of the town’s history and pride.

How can restaurants stand out?

Today’s guests are more discerning. To exceed their expectations, a restaurant has to consistently make unique delicious recipes from scratch.

Gathered below are the other Central Massachusetts’ 2016 Power Players:

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Standard Bearers: Long-time forces in the business community

Trail Blazers: Pioneers setting the latest economic trends

Behind the Scenes: People in the background who keep the wheels turning

Next Wave: Forward thinkers ushering in the new economy

Gear Shifters: Up-and-comers breathing new life into old ideas

– Digital Partners -

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