LaVerde’s Market Closes After Three Decades of Service
LaVerde’s Market, located in the Stratton Student Center (W20), officially closed on Apr. 17 after over three decades of service.
Commemorating LaVerde’s
The popular grocery store offered a variety of options—including a premium sandwich bar with MIT themed names; a selection of snacks, beverages, and produce; as well as other typical convenience store goods.
Their website describes the market as both “iconic and indispensable” and “as beloved and renowned as The Dome itself.”
Peter Cummings, executive director for administration in the Division of Student Life (DSL), said that the grocery store offered a “valuable service” to the MIT community and “we are disappointed that they will be closing.”
East Campus hall 1W also hosted a vigil for the now closed grocery store the day before it’s closure.
Reasons for Closure
The closure was influenced by declining sales as a result of the pandemic as well as the Student Center closing for renovations. According to Paul Riel, the decision to permanently close the store resulted from a lack of ability “to sustain our business model.”
According to a statement from the 660 Corporation, operator of LaVerde’s, all current employees have been offered “equal employment opportunities” with other 660 stores on Boston University’s campus.
Alternative Food Options
MIT community members interested in alternative food options can visit the W20 closure page for more information regarding a rotating food truck roster, local restaurants and grocers accepting TechCash, and more.
The DSL encourages students to reach out with any questions or feedback at foodstuff@mit.edu.