Worcester Business Journal

wbjournal.com | June 8, 2026 | Worcester Business Journal 33 Thank you for your leadership, dedication, and continued commitment to advancing the WBDC's vision for GreenTech Park and our region. ROBERTA BRIEN 2026 WBJ POWER 100 CONGRATULATIONS Julia Moriconi President Mrs. Moriconi's, in Worcester Age: 58 Employees: 6 Annual revenue: $150,000 Moriconi helped create one of Worcester's most successful new community gathering spaces. rough Market on Exchange, she transformed an underused area behind the former Rotmans build- ing into a thriving destination for shoppers, farmers, artisans, and small businesses. In 2025, the market drew more than 25,000 visitors, generated over $500,000 for vendors and tenant businesses, and helped launch new brick-and-mortar and full-time ventures from the participating businesses. - B.K. What unique skill sets you apart from others? Turning overlooked spaces into thriving public des- tinations connects local businesses with opportunity and creates systems that help small vendors grow sustainably. What is one habit powerful leaders should practice every day? Powerful leaders need to practice positive internal dialogue every day. Confi- dence, resilience, and self-belief create the founda- tion for clear decision-making and perseverance. Why do you do business in Central Mass.? It is a region with rich history, people who respect hard work, and tremendous opportunity to create mean- ingful local impact. Eric Smookler Vice chairman and co-chief investment officer WS Development, in Chestnut Hill Age: 44 Smookler is leading one of the most significant re- tail investments underway in Central Massachusetts. rough WS Development's expansion of e Shops at Blackstone Valley, he is overseeing con- struction of nearly 35,000 square feet of new retail space expected to bring approximately 10 new tenants to the region, including nationally recog- nized brands like Shake Shack, Sweetgreen, and LaserAway. e project slated for mid-2026 completion rein- forces Blackstone Valley's status as a premier shop- ping destination while creating jobs and attracting additional consumer spending to the area. rough his role at WS Development, he has sourced and led more than $300 million in acquisi- tions. - B.K. Why do you do business in Central Mass.? Central Massachusetts is a region with real econom- ic momentum and a community that values quality. WS Development has long believed in investing where people live, work, and gather, and Central Mass. continues to reward that commitment. R E TA I L P OW E R 1 0 0 "e most lasting power comes from earning trust, building community, and creating opportunities that benefit others." - Julia Moriconi, Mrs. Moriconi's

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