Bowl & Board succumbed to the recession this fall after 43 years in business. But the end was somewhat anticlimactic. After liquidation specialists swarmed through the store taking inventory, owner Mark Giarrusso prepared for the store's final sale.

(Image credit: Tovia Smith/NPR)

With the stress of operating a retail business during the Great Recession, Bowl & Board owner Mark Giarrusso made the tough decision to liquidate instead of reorganize. The decision comes after a yearlong fight to keep the chain of New England housewares stores afloat.

(Image credit: Matthew Teuten for NPR)

In the four decades that Bowl & Board has been in business, the early spring has always been the slow season. But this year customers have never been more scarce. Meanwhile, owner Mark Giarrusso continues to fight for survival through bankruptcy.

(Image credit: Tovia Smith/NPR)

Retailer Mark Giarrusso wants to reorganize his family-owned chain. But the landlord is trying to get him to liquidate. Just six months ago, Giarrusso couldn't fathom closing even a single store. Now, there are days he can't imagine staying open another minute.

A family-owned chain of New England housewares stores has filed for bankruptcy protection. But the battle to keep up with the court's requirements and to prove that he's running a viable business is rough on Bowl & Board owner Mark Giarrusso.

(Image credit: Matt Teuten)

Bowl & Board, a family-owned chain of housewares stores in New England, is trying to stay alive through bankruptcy protection. With the closure of its Brookline, Mass., location, the company hopes it can still keep its other locations going during these tough economic times.

(Image credit: Tovia Smith/NPR)

Bowl & Board, a family-owned chain of housewares stores in New England, is trying to boost its sales — and morale — with creative promotions. Despite drastic cost-cutting measures, sales are sinking. With the economy in recession, it's possible the chain may have to close at least two locations.