Empty Storefronts on Massachusetts Avenue: Small Businesses Struggle in Boston Amidst Pandemic and Economic Challenges

On a warm Tuesday, students at Berklee College of Music in Boston were met with empty storefronts along Massachusetts Avenue. Austin Chen, who has run Berklee Noodles Factory with his family for seven years, expressed deep concern over these closures. “The cost of operating a small business is on the rise,” he said. “It’s getting harder and harder to make ends meet.”

According to Jon Hurst, president of the Retailers Association of Massachusetts, high rent prices, inflation, insurance costs, and remote work are among the leading factors behind the closures of small businesses in Boston. He highlighted Guitar Center as an example of a popular store that had to shut down despite being frequented by musicians like Cyrus Hayes, a senior at Berklee College of Music.

Despite the challenges facing small businesses in Boston, the City has implemented a Space Grant Program that offers grants up to $200,000. These funds can be used for rent, security deposits, and improvements to help businesses stay afloat. Alia Hamanda Forrest, business strategy director for the City of Boston remains optimistic about filling vacant storefronts caused by the pandemic. Meanwhile, Chen is hopeful that foot traffic along Mass Ave will pick up as summer progresses and urged customers to visit and support local businesses like his.

Chen emphasized that small businesses operate on thin profit margins and encouraged individuals in the Boston area to visit their establishment for a bowl of ramen. Every customer visit helps them sustain their business during challenging times. This plea for support from the community underscores the importance of local patronage in keeping small businesses alive during trying times.