Maine: A Place of Business 2023

Celebrating Maine companies, their achievements over the years and the ways they give back to the communities that support them.

A Place of Business

Bangor’s Booming Downtown

BY KATE BIELINSKI

If you’ve strolled downtown this year, you may have noticed a few new additions. From fitness studios to several retail shops to a community grocery store, Bangor’s downtown saw the opening of almost 20 businesses in 2022, including service-based and commercial companies moving into office spaces.

An Ecosystem for Growth

While the pandemic impacted many small businesses in communities like Bangor with many people turning to online retailers and delivery services, studies show that this year, 94% of consumers have returned to shopping at physical stores. Though this proves to be a positive outlook for downtown and certainly a driver for the recent business growth, there’s more to the story.

Executive Director at Downtown Bangor Partnership Betsey Lundy also credits the redevelopment of vacant spaces and unused,

outdated offices into residential space. In the past, without many people living downtown, businesses had to draw customers from other areas of town, which proved to be challenging in some instances.

“Now, suddenly you have bodies downtown all the time and it’s become a desirable place to open a business. Be it a restaurant, retail, or wellness business, you essentially have a built-in customer base.”

In many ways, for a downtown community to thrive, it needs to be a well-balanced ecosystem; an ideal mix of residents, businesses, and commercial spaces. Tim McClary, Associate Broker for Realty of Maine and a downtown property owner and manager, believes that this can be seen not only in how the residential growth has helped support local businesses, but how more business options have made downtown attractive to residents.

“They love the fact that they can walk down the street and have restaurant options for a nice dinner, can grab milk or other staples at the local store, or take a yoga class,” McClary says. “Downtown Bangor now has a lot of the amenities that you’d see in Boston or New York City but within five or so minutes of their front doors.”

A Supportive Business Community

Whether you’ve dreamed of starting a business of your own or are just curious about what it takes, there is no shortage of resources, helping hands, and supporters willing to share their experiences and advice within the Bangor community.

At Downtown Bangor Partnership, Lundy welcomes a call from anyone wanting to explore the idea of starting a business downtown. As a two-time small business owner herself, she is a wealth of knowledge

and super connector, directing prospective entrepreneurs to the best resources to advance them on their journey.

“The number one place to start is the Maine Small Business Development Center,” recommends Lundy. Maine SBDC provides comprehensive business management assistance, training, and information to the small business community and can help with everything from business plans to financing options.

Cara Oleksyk, the creative mind behind Red Rabbit Bazaar, a newly opened vintage and modern apparel shop at 9 Central St., says talking with other business owners, including her mentor and former owner of Metropolitan Soul, Tracy Monahan, and working with The Coastal Entrepreneurship and Innovation Institute were key elements in helping her bring the idea of Red Rabbit Bazaar to life.

“Having mentors sharing their experiences and processes made me feel very well supported. I had people to brainstorm with about what the store layout could look like and ask questions about profit and loss statements,” says Oleksyk. “There are so many resources and people willing to help. You just need to find them and don’t be afraid to ask.”

When it comes to starting a business, another important thing to consider is how it’ll fit into the market and what the business plan will look like.

Before James Gallagher opened The Salty Brick Market, a grocery market that opened in July at 35 Main St., he took the current mix of downtown into consideration. With the boom in residential spaces and people returning to offices, Gallagher saw an opportunity to fill more than one need.

“Our grocery market is a great place for the residents downtown who, when they wake up in the morning, realize they’ve run out of eggs or half-and-half for their coffee and don’t want to have to hop in the car to drive to the store,” Gallagher explains. “But we also see a

lot of business people during lunch because we have a salad bar with 30 fresh options as well as hot and cold sandwiches.”

Oleksyk also believes in having a diversified business plan. Red Rabbit Bazaar started online before opening downtown on Nov. 26, Small Business Saturday. The shop’s online presence allows Oleksyk to reach vintage fashion lovers all across the country, but she values the connection and community feel her physical store offers.

“This is a place where people can come and take their time. Feel the fabric. Try things on. Bring a friend or family member and enjoy the experience,” says Okelsyk. “In January, we will be adding basic sewing repair and darning classes, and in the coming year we hope to host some events.”

When it comes to deciding if your business would be a good fit for downtown Bangor, Gallagher suggests doing research and finding the missing puzzle piece. “Don’t try to do something better that’s already there. Downtown definitely has a following and a rhythm, so instead, find what is missing and fill the gap.”

Shopping Local Supports The Whole Community

With all the growth downtown Bangor has seen, much of its future depends on the support of the local community.

“When people shop local, 75 cents of every dollar stays in their community, versus only about 10 percent when you shop online or at national retailers or big box stores,” explains Lundy.

And it isn’t just the businesses themselves that benefit, it is the region as a whole.

“Having local businesses downtown gives people a reason to come downtown,” says Gallagher, “and as a result, we also see other development in the area like the concerts growing and more cruise ships coming to the Bangor port.”

Today, shopping locally is easier than ever. Many downtown businesses now offer online ordering with curbside pick-up or delivery, and Lundy says that even those that may not advertise it are usually willing to accommodate if you give them a call.

A Long History of Community Support

Located in Brewer, W.S. Emerson has been in the wholesale apparel business for just over a century, currently employs over 50 full-time individuals, and all contribute to the success of the company.

Beginning in 1921 on Central Street in Bangor, Walter Emerson opened the doors to this family owned business. “Uncle” John Vickery was Walter’s first employee and later became the general manager. The sales team traveled throughout Maine selling national and private apparel brands to retailers. W.S. Emerson was rapidly growing and their need for more room became evident. A four story brick building was purchased on Exchange Street in Bangor. In 1950, John Vickery brought in his brother, Winslow, to help with the growth of the business, who later became President and GM. The brothers grew a corporate culture that emphasized family

and hard work. “Uncle” John Vickery purchased W.S. Emerson in 1952, after the passing of Walter Emerson. Winslow expanded the business by leasing departments within Robert Miller’s retail stores throughout Maine. In 1965, Urban Renewal took the building on Exchange Street. Needing a new building, 15 Acme Road in Brewer was built.

After the death of Winslow in 1982, a new generation took over. Winslow’s sons, John and Russ, became President and Vice President. Business flourished during the 1980s with both the retail and wholesale divisions of the company expanding. As the 1990s arrived, so did big-box retailers, dramatically changing the business climate. In one year, over 2,500 of W.S. Emerson’s retail accounts closed their businesses. Reinventing the W.S. Emerson Company became the Vickerys top

priority. Demand for customized apparel in the retail and wholesale sectors became main-stream. Using their strong relationship with suppliers and partners, the brothers invested in embroidery and screenprinting equipment. New technology was added and gave the Vickerys a new avenue to continue to expand their business offerings.

Today, W.S. Emerson is third generation owned. John Jr. and Betsy Vickery took the reins in 2013, building on modern and efficient technology while keeping to their roots of community support.

Their focus is on products and services that deliver an experience for the customer, along with developing eCommerce capabilities which offer innovative ideas and creative solutions that reach beyond the state. W.S. Emerson looks for ways to foster the need of feeling

COURTESY OF W.S. EMERSON

connected as a team with a shared purpose and identity — whether there are thousands of miles between teammates or just a few feet.

John and Betsy know the W.S. Emerson team is vital, hiring throughout the local community for over 100 years. Emphasizing collaboration, W.S. Emerson leadership employs highly skilled and talented people who design, manufacture, and fulfill products. Ranging from uniforms, Years of Service Recognition, and support gifts, W.S. Emerson fosters and supports people, businesses, and communities throughout Maine, New England, and beyond. W.S. Emerson continues focusing on its commitment to delivering quality products and experiences. While celebrating 2023 with a new look, W.S. Emerson is rooted to its original tenets that still support them as a family and a company.

Bar Harbor Bank & Trust’s Approach to Business Lending

At Bar Harbor Bank & Trust, we want every business owner and entrepreneur who comes to us for financing for their business to be our next best client. Small businesses are the lifeblood of every community, and your success helps our communities grow and prosper. Our investment in you and your business is an investment in our community. There are many reasons why Bar Harbor Bank & Trust is the partner you need, including:

Fast, Local Decision Making

Entrepreneurs do everything for their business and securing financing is just another task on a long to-do list. That’s why we have streamlined our approval process to help you get the financing you need fast. For many of our small business clients, the process to apply, get approved, and get a loan can happen in a day or two.

Relationship Approach

We invest in and value long-term customer relationships. Our bankers take the time to truly understand your business and respective goals and challenges. Even after we approve your financing, we will be there to answer any questions you have or offer whatever assistance or guidance you might need.

Face-to-Face Interaction

Unlike the experience of borrowing from larger financial institutions, you will really know your banker when you work with us. Our bankers are more than just a name in your email inbox or voicemail. We are trusted advisors that you can sit down with during the application process and any time after.

Competitive rates

Small business loans are underwritten on a case-by-case basis. Every loan application is unique and evaluated on its own merits. Rates vary depending on the loan product.

Ready to get started?

We’re ready to help you meet all of your business goals. With more than 50 branches, including locations in Bangor, Brewer, Orono, Pittsfield, Ellsworth, and beyond, we are local and understand the local market.

If you’re unsure about what financing you need, contact any of our Community Bankers. If you are not sure who to talk to, give us a call at 207-669-681. Learn more at www.barharbor.bank.

All loans subject to application and credit approval. Member FDIC.

S.W. Cole Engineering wanted to add a new business line which was capital intensive. CFO Jason Richard called Bar Harbor Bank & Trust to finance their new drilling business. With our understanding of the company, we helped them expand into this new line, grow their geographic reach and streamline their cash management.

To see this and other success stories, go to www.barharbor.bank/success-stories.

Call 603-843-6811 today to connect with our Commercial Banking team.

Steve Gurin SVP, Director of Community Banking Bar Harbor Bank & Trust

www.barharbor.bank • 888-853-7100

Over 50 locations across northern New England

Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender

Additional terms/fees may apply for some services. All applications subject to approval.

Proud to be Named One of America’s Best Banks for 2022

With the bank’s help, our growth has been a success. ‘‘

—Jason Richard, CFO, S.W. Cole Engineering ’’

COURTESY OF BAR HARBOR BANK & TRUST

Maine Businesses

Reinventing businesses, making work schedules more flexible and remote, and being a wiser consumer have become the norm since the spring of 2020. You may, however, have a sour taste in your mouth given how fuel and grocery prices have soared and inflation has hit a 40-year high. Yet, those who work with and advocate for businesses in Maine are hopeful for an accelerated post-pandemic resurgence.

“A healthy economy depends on healthy people,” said Dana Connors, Maine State Chamber of Commerce president. “Attitude is important in the relationship to consumer confidence. I am an optimist and right now I see some very promising signs of hope and encouragement. On a larger scale, as we look to the new year, it would be fair to say there is a risk of uncertainty. How long will our inflationary costs last or evolve into a recession and if so, will it be minor or more?”

Despite the uncertainty, Lee Umphrey, president of Eastern Maine Development Corporation (EMDC), also sees the state of Maine’s economy in a positive light. “The pandemic was a challenge locally, statewide, nationally and globally but the resiliency, grit and resolve of Maine people helped businesses meet the challenge.” EMDC is a community-based organization that reinforces and supports businesses to help them maintain standing while growing their businesses.

Umphrey compared today’s situation to Maine’s last economic crisis. “The demise of the paper mills was the last time a major economic crisis roiled our region. Again, our built-in Maine resiliency kicked in to revive and redevelop the former mills.”

More thoughtful decision making by Maine consumers is helping to turn the economic tide. Local banks are seeing customers making careful decisions and

exploring different options. Bangor Savings Bank spokesperson Jaclyn Fish said, “Most borrowers are already locked in at the lowest possible rate. However, average loan amounts remain on an upward trend, and more home buyers are exploring adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) loans.”

“Delinquencies are at record lows yet people are borrowing a lot of money but being reasonable about it,” said recently retired Maine Savings Federal Credit Union CEO John Reed. “I think people are being wise these days.”

When looking at Maine’s position across the United States, our state ranks in the bottom 12 of the weakest economies and sports the oldest population. Yet, Connors said, “Maine is better off than so many states — we have our challenges but we don’t have as many problems other states have. We can overcome and manage our problems. We did have a younger

BY ANNE GABBIANELLI

population move to Maine during the pandemic — there was tremendous appeal for outdoor venues in Maine so this helped us. You have to ask, if Maine is such an unattractive place, why have people come to Maine to start a new life?”

One of those who found Maine attractive is Christina Buck who moved here in 2020 in the midst of the state’s shutdown. The owner of Pleasantly Pampered, an inhome animal grooming business, she said the plan to move away from Arizona’s intense heat was in the works pre-Covid.

“We had planned to continue the in-home grooming, but when we got here we couldn’t go into people’s homes.” So Buck reinvented her business. “In two month’s time, we secured commercial space on Columbia Street.” She admitted the inflated price of even dog nail clippers and the demand for higher salaries has been a challenge, but she said, “It’s working out great right now.”

Superior Staffiing, Payroll and Accounting Services at your finger tips to Help YOU SUCCEED!

CALL US TODAY!!

43 Acme Rd. Ste F Brewer, ME. 04401 (207) 762-8198 services@hutchandco.com

Allow us toIntroduce Ourselves...

Although we’ve been around for 160 years, Troy Industrial Solutions (TIS) is fairly new to the Brewer area, acquiring Lane Conveyors and Drivers in 2015. Specializing in custom metal fabrication, bulk material handling, sales, and service, TIS has evolved into a comprehensive, multifaceted, premiere maintenance support company throughout the Northeast. With headquarters in Watervliet, NY and operational services in New Hampshire and Connecticut, there was a vision to expand and grow the business in Maine. By retaining skilled, committed, local employees with years of experience, TIS has evolved into servicing the needs of Maine industries including fishing, agriculture/ farming, higher education, paper/pulp, lumber/wood, outdoor recreation, and manufacturing companies.

Simply said, TIS fixes, repairs, replaces,

or makes custom designed metal fabricated products for clients that help solve their problems. Examples of our work include creating a custom frame to protect a large plastic 3D printer/injection projector for the post graduate engineering program at University of Maine, manufacturing custom panels for electrical boxes and modifying steel power poles, 24-60 feet in length for Versant Power and most recently, the fabrication of steel stairs, platforms, and support frames for Cianbro Construction Company.

TIS recently received AISC (American Institute of Steel Construction) certification for Building Fabricator and Complex Coating Endorsement, making our facility one of seven in Maine to have these quality management systems certifications. In addition, TIS was recently awarded a $260,000 federal grant that is being used to

COURTESY OF TROY INDUSTRIAL SOLUTIONS

purchase a new high-tech plasma table providing premium cutting performance and improving the quality of our products to keep us competitive in the marketplace. TIS is also using some of the grant money received to hire additional employees in Brewer to support the investment made in the new equipment, including a CNC operator, fabricator, and welder.

We help to keep industry running, that’s our primary objective, but not our only one. No metal fabrication project is too big or too small for TIS, so we provide a service to small businesses and individuals with our mini-fabrication processes. Many times, customers will come to us with a sketch or a drawing of an idea on a napkin or piece of paper that they would like fabricated, and more times than not, we are able to produce what they ask for. Steel sales are also a big part of our services and

has helped us to become known in and around the Brewer area.

And, when we aren’t busy producing massive-sized metal fabrications to keep industry running or creating custom firepits for neighbors, we try to give back to the community that has been so welcoming to us. For the past two years, TIS employees have participated in Brewer’s Free the Z’s Annual Turkey Drive, helping to collect turkeys to distribute to local residents. And this year, TIS employees elected to participate in The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program, providing clothing and Christmas gifts specifically for teenagers in and around the Bangor/Brewer area.

Thank you for making us a part of the Maine community. Stop in and say hello, we are located at 15 Industrial Plaza Drive in Brewer. We look forward to meeting you, if we haven’t already.

A long History of Serving the Community

COURTESY OF BREWER FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

Our History.

Brewer Federal Credit Union was chartered on April 20, 1960. At that time, it was known as the EASTCO Federal Credit Union and had a field of membership that was limited to the employees of Standard Packaging, Eastern Division. By April 1968, the charter was changed, the name changed to Brewer Federal Credit Union, and those individuals residing and/or working in Brewer were welcomed members. Since then, the geographic boundaries have changed, adding on towns and counties along with mergers with other small credit unions, which has led the way to the Brewer Federal Credit Union you know now. Brewer Federal Credit Union is more than 8,500 members strong serving Penobscot, Hancock, and Waldo counties.

Our Services.

Through all the changes, Brewer FCU has remained committed to being the best financial institution, meeting the needs of all our members with services and support plus decisions made locally. We have worked hard to embrace the changes in technology by ensuring that we provide up-to-date ways to access your account including a mobile app and online banking, available 24/7 from anywhere you are. But, we also know that personal banking, visiting us at our branch locations, and being able to talk to someone you know and trust, are important. That’s why we maintain two branch locations in Brewer and remain open 6 days per week.

Our Community.

Brewer FCU takes pride in our community involvement and support. The opportunity to support local youth sports and fundraising events for many causes is important to us and the communities we serve. One of the most important efforts we raise money for is the Maine Credit Unions’ Ending Hunger Campaign. The money raised by Brewer FCU for the Ending Hunger Campaign stays in our region and helps our friends and neighbors struggling with food security.

None of our success in supporting these causes could happen without the wonderful community of members we have at Brewer FCU. Thanks to their generosity, each year we play host to many successful events and activities such as Wayne’s Wiffle for a Wish to raise money for the Make A Wish Foundation, Free the Z collecting turkeys for Thanksgiving dinners for area families in need through Penquis, or making sure children in our area have a wonderful Christmas through the Hands of Hope.

We are proud of the work we do in serving our members and our community and are happy to continue to serve the Maine communities in Penobscot, Waldo, and Hancock counties.

Change Is

Good. Open An Account with Us.

BrewerFCU.org

Federally insured by NCUA