Boston’s beloved Time Out Market has been saved from closure thanks to local real estate developer Samuels and Associates. Just a day before it was set to shut its doors, they stepped in to keep the food hall open.
Originally, Time Out Market announced it would close on January 23 after nearly seven years, citing a drop in business due to changing foot traffic patterns post-pandemic. Time Out CEO Michael Marlay explained that the mix of hybrid work and rising operational costs made it hard to stay profitable.
Steve Samuels, the founder of Samuels and Associates, recognized the community’s strong reaction to the potential closure. He said, “It’s a critical piece of the neighborhood,” and emphasized that with some creativity and teamwork, they could revive the market. Mayor Michelle Wu even reached out to Samuels to encourage him to take action.
Now, Samuels plans to work closely with the 15 vendors to boost business. He’s committed to keeping the Time Out brand, ensuring the market keeps its name and signage. He wants to renew and refresh the space with exciting new ideas that resonate with the community.
Originally opened in June 2019, Time Out Market features a mix of local food and beverage options, such as Union Square Donuts and anoush’ella. The market is part of a global chain that has locations in cities like New York and London. The first Time Out Market opened in Lisbon in 2014, and now Boston stands as a crucial part of this culinary experience.
Interestingly, recent data shows a trend in urban markets shifting to optimize their offerings for the post-pandemic crowd. Many food halls are rethinking their concepts to attract both locals and tourists. According to a survey from the National Restaurant Association, 76% of consumers prioritize unique dining experiences, underscoring the need for markets like Time Out to innovate.
Samuels is excited about the future. “We’re going to take our cues from the people who know the business best,” he said, hinting at a collaborative approach to ensuring the market thrives again. This community spirit highlights how shared spaces can adapt and endure during challenging times.
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