Area Development
Away, a direct-to-consumer travel brand, will create 249 new jobs in a major expansion and relocation of its headquarters to 82 Mercer Street in New York, New York.

The company will relocate its headquarters from 419 Lafayette Street to a 56,000-square-foot space at 82 Mercer Street, Manhattan. The move and expansion will create 249 new jobs over the next five years across product, customer experience, creative, editorial, social impact, and other departments.

Away Co-Founder & CEO Steph Korey said, “Just over two years ago, we started Away in an 1,100-square-foot office on Mulberry Street with a team of four. We’ve grown to more than 150 employees since then, and from offering one suitcase to more than a dozen products that are making travel more seamless for our customers around the world. This move represents a significant step for Away, and we’re humbled by the support of New York as we continue to grow in a city that’s as global as our customers.”

To encourage Away’s expansion, Empire State Development will provide the company $4 million in performance-based tax credits through the Excelsior Jobs Program.

“Away’s commitment and investment in New York is proof positive of the growth opportunities this state has to offer,” Governor Andrew Cuomo said. “As this 21st century business continues to develop and expand, we look forward to the creation of new, quality jobs for men and women throughout the greater New York City area and continued success for the company for years to come.”

“Our business climate has improved significantly across the state, and Away’s commitment to creating hundreds of new jobs in New York City is a testament to our economic development initiatives,” said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. “The company’s expansion and investment in New York is adding good paying jobs and continuing to boost the economy of our city and the entire state.”

“If you’re a business looking to innovate and change the market, New York is the place to build and grow your company,” said Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Howard Zemsky. “In just over two years, Away has grown from a startup to achieving remarkable success in the Empire State, generating hundreds of jobs and helping to build a 21st century economy.”

Council Member Margaret S. Chin said, “By providing resources to help rising entrepreneurs grow their businesses in New York City, the New York State Excelsior Jobs Program has helped fuel critical job creation in neighborhoods such as Lower Manhattan, helping it become the unparalleled hub of creativity, innovation and success that we know today. I thank Governor Cuomo for being a partner in our efforts to support socially responsible businesses and continue to grow a 21st century economy in New York City.”