"Penn Concessions? But aren't you a bookstore?"

Penn Concessions Inc started in 1962, founded by Arthur Newman, my grandfather. Arthur had been a knock-around businessman, running various concession stands on the Jersey Shore throughout the 1940's and 50's, until he settled down with a bookstore in the old Penn Station in 1962. When the station was remodeled, he opened up bookstores on both levels, as well as three Howard Johnson's Ice Cream stores, all under the general business name "Penn Concessions."

I came to work for my grandfather in the 70's, and took more active responsibility in the 80's. In 1985, Amtrak renovated the upper level of Penn Station, forcing the closure of the stores on that level. More bad news followed, and we had to close our remaining bookstore and ice cream stands. Around that time, Arthur fell ill and passed away at the age of 77.

I was now the president and CEO of the "Penn Concessions" business, which reopened as a single bookstore in the Empire State Building named "Empire Books." Business was not as good there, and I felt that I needed to get back into Penn Station.

I spoke with everyone I knew to try to get this done, and when a clothing shop decided not to renew their lease, I made some quick negotiations and landed a lease. In 1992, we were back in Penn Station with the store name "Penn Books" (though the business was still entitled "Penn Concessions").

The rent was higher this time around, and I knew that we needed brisk sales to succeed. Thanks to a large and devoted customer base and a hard-working staff, things have worked out great. I thank all of our regular customers and hope to serve you for many more years, and I welcome new customers to come in and browse. You'd be surprised what you might find in a train station bookstore!

Thanks again,
Craig Newman, CEO, Penn Concessions