New state data shows people were willing to spend a little more money this fall, but some shoppers still plan on cutting costs for the holidays.
retailers
Maine company will reissue otter T-shirt Taylor Swift wore in ‘Showgirl’ film
Liberty Graphics in Midcoast Maine will reprint the shirt as part of a fundraising campaign to benefit the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California. Swifties donated more than $1.3 million in a day.
Immigrant owners are preserving Maine’s variety stores and markets
New Mainers are buying and operating village markets and variety stores across the state, often in rural areas where they are preserving the only retail access to gas, groceries and other necessities for miles around.
Postal Service rate increases could squeeze Maine businesses
The state’s remote geography means most shipments destined for beyond New England will face higher surcharges over the winter holiday season.
Is Maine’s enthusiasm for fireworks fizzling out?
The number of stores in the state has been declining since 2018, and after an uptick during the pandemic, sales have slowed as well.
Bills targeting grocery price gouging fail to win lawmakers’ support
A legislative committee agreed with business advocates who say the bills are unnecessary and will make it impossible for businesses to manage risk.
L.L. Bean drops lawsuit against canvas tote copycat
4Imprint Inc. apparently no longer sells the ‘boat tote’ that prompted the Freeport-based retailer to claim trademark infringement.
L.L.Bean sues Wisconsin company, alleging it copied signature tote bags
The trademark infringement lawsuit calls the bulk-ordered ‘boat tote’ bags sold by 4Imprint Inc. ‘confusingly similar’ and a deliberate attempt to ‘free ride’ on the Maine company’s popular item.
Patagonia sues Marden’s, alleging that Maine retailer knowingly sold counterfeit gear
The general manager for Marden’s says the Winslow-based company had no idea the products were inauthentic and has removed them from its stores.
Mainers join nationwide economic blackout in their own way
Some small businesses saw more cash purchases during the 24-hour grassroots action against the U.S. economic and political system.