The Perk, Armstrong’s only alternative coffee shop to Starbucks, is permanently closed as of the fall 2024 semester.

The Perk has been an on-campus employment option for students since 2018 following the merger. Coffee, pastries, smoothies, boba and grab-and-go items were available for purchase.

“In our discussions with the Student Union and Facilities staff, we discovered their desire to renovate the Student Union space on the Armstrong Campus,” said April Burke, Georgia Southern’s Communication and Engagement Strategist, in an email. “Currently the space where The Perk was is slated to become the new information desk for the Student Union.”

Their shutdown leaves students with three dining options on campus, including Chick-Fil-A, Southern Cafe and The Galley. Students have expressed dissatisfaction in Armstrong’s limited dining operations in recent years. 

Burke stated that the “close proximity” between The Perk and Starbucks was another factor in their decision. The Perk’s employees were relocated to other dining spots on campus.

Efforts are currently being made to provide coffee in The Galley, Burke said.