The Battle for Boston’s Small Businesses: How High Rent Prices and Remote Work are Impacting Local Shops

Boston’s small businesses are facing closure as the cost of operating a business continues to rise, leading to decreasing foot traffic and flat sales, according to Jon Hurst, president of the Retailers Association of Massachusetts. High rent prices, inflation, insurance costs, and remote work are some of the key factors impacting these mom-and-pop shops. For instance, Guitar Center, a popular store that was frequented by musicians like Cyrus Hayes at Berklee College of Music, had to shut down despite its popularity.

To support struggling small businesses in Boston, the City has implemented a Space Grant Program that offers grants up to $200,000 that can be used for rent payments or improvements. Despite the challenges faced by these businesses, Alia Hamanda Forrest remains optimistic about helping fill vacant storefronts caused by the pandemic. Meanwhile Austin Chen who runs Berklee Noodles Factory with his family for seven years is hopeful that foot traffic along Mass Ave will increase as summer progresses and encourages customers to visit and support local businesses like his.

Chen emphasized that small businesses operate on thin profit margins and rely heavily on community patronage during challenging times. He urged individuals in the Boston area to visit their establishment for a bowl of ramen as every customer visit helps sustain their business. In conclusion supporting small businesses is crucial during challenging times and can be done by visiting them regularly and encouraging others to do the same.