Any incoming snow and ice means big business for places like hardware stores, but for other small businesses like Main Street Pastries and more, it means the complete opposite.

The Northborough bakery calls winter storms a test of survival for small businesses. Already struggling because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Main Street Pastries and More has been dealing with an additional loss in customers over the last few months because of the winter weather.

Owner Diana Batista says when people don't buy from small businesses during storms, it hurts local shops in more ways than one.

"Not only are they not coming out to buy from you, they are also buying from somewhere else, and it's always big chains," said Batista.

She said she keeps up with the latest bakery trends and stays active on social media to help make up for the snowy days.

But over at Jerry's Hardware and Car Keys in Worcester, business in the last month has been booming. Sleds, shovels and ice melt have been flying off the shelves. January started slow for owner Tom Pechinis, but anytime it snows, he says it's a ​good day for business.

"Bad weather is just good for business. Anything that makes misery is just good for business. I don't want anyone getting hurt, but misery is OK. I wish we could have a snow storm like this every week," said Pechinis.

Pechinis says for this storm, buying ice melt is the best way to prepare. Jerry's Hardware has plenty in stock, but he said he has noticed a smaller supply from sellers.