The coronavirus disease 2019 has the potential to be dooming for small businesses. Many on the Kalamazoo Mall posted signs either showing they’re closed or limiting services, as in this file photo from summer 2020. (WWMT/Jason Puhr) GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Black-owned businesses have been hit substantially harder by the coronavirus pandemic than companies overall, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. A new report from the bank shows large disparities in how business owners of various races have struggled since the pandemic hit. The study found 41% of Black-owned businesses have closed between the months of February and April, compared to 17% of white businesses. About 32% of Latino businesses and 26% of Asian businesses shut down during the same time period. Grand Rapids business owner Jermale Eddie and his wife founded Malamiah Juice Bar in 2013. The juice bar got its name from a combination of the Eddie’s three kids names. It’s known for its juices, smoothies, salads, and acai bowls. Eddie said they also offer locally sourced coffee and granola. “I recognize a local business’ price may be higher than what you get at a big box store," Eddie said. ”I know, because our […]

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