When you ask a non-resident to tell you about Maine, they will undoubtedly mention lobster, pine trees, and Stephen King.

What if you asked them about Maine businesses?  There is a good chance that the only one they will know is the iconic L.L. Bean.

The retailer, which is known for high-quality outdoor clothing and equipment, has been in business since 1912.  During that time, the company has sold thousands of pairs of boots, jackets, hats, gloves, tents, canoes, kayaks, and more.  Not to mention tens of thousands of those monogrammed backpacks that all the cool kids had.

The beloved Maine retailer has been the recipient of many awards including the 2020 Silver Halo Award, a 2005 Web Award for 'Best Catalog Site', and the 2024 MEMIC Award for 'Excellence in Safety'.

Recently, it was announced the store had won another award.

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Retailer of the Year

The Retail Association of Maine has selected L.L. Bean as the Maine 'Retailer of the Year'.

Some of the many reasons the company was chosen to receive the prestigious award include the increase in sales the company has seen in the last year, the company's commitment to its staff, and L.L. Bean's drive to enrich the communities in which it operates.

The press release about the award says, in part:

Widely recognized as an international retail industry leader, L.L.Bean continues to invest in Maine. L.L.Bean exemplifies the same qualities that define the Retailer of the Year—dedication to customer service, innovation, and community impact. Just as the award honors retailers who lead with excellence and integrity, L.L.Bean has set the standard for these values with its commitment to quality, its ability to adapt in a changing marketplace, and its strong ties to Maine’s communities.

 

Learn more about L.L. Bean from the company's website.

Previous recipients of the award include Hancock Lumber (2023), Lisa Marie's Made in Maine (2022), Fielder's Choice (2019), and Johnny's Selected Seeds (2008).

Here's 30 Maine Craft Beers to Get Lost on an Island With

Thanks to our great listeners, we compiled a list of many of Maine breweries' best beers. The ones you would love to have if lost on a deserted island.

These great spots can be found across the state, waiting for you to try them. Many can be found on Beer Advocate's Maine Craft Beer Top 100 Rankings.

How many of these have you had?

Gallery Credit: Chris Sedenka

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As of October 2024, the following countries and regions were on the State Department's 'DoNot Travel' list. Check out the latest list HERE.

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