Clover Food Lab, a popular Boston-area vegetarian restaurant chain, warns it may close by May 29, 2026, if it cannot find a buyer, risking 182 jobs. The company filed a WARN notice amid financial struggles following its 2023 bankruptcy caused by COVID-19 impacts. Despite optimistic hopes for future growth, the chain’s future remains uncertain as it seeks new ownership.

The shift in consumer preferences toward high-protein, meat and dairy products is contributing to the decline of plant-based eateries. Market data shows increased demand for dairy-based proteins, expected to grow to $22 billion by 2033, and USDA statistics indicate rising per capita meat consumption. Experts attribute this trend to perceptions of meat and dairy as more satisfying and easier to market, which challenges plant-based businesses like Clover Food Lab. This changing landscape puts traditional vegetarian eateries at risk as the broader food market favors protein-rich meats and dairy products.