The Staying Power of

Downtown Retail in Maine

By Samantha Marinko | Broker

E-commerce’s convenience factors will always shape modern shopping, but the health of Maine’s downtown retail markets also proves that in-person experiences, community ties, and a local hook remain invaluable assets. According to the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development, “Maine’s Retail Trade sector has outperformed the nation since 2017.” And across the state, downtown districts like Portland’s Old Port and Freeport’s revitalized Main Street are attracting foot traffic, unique brands, and new investment.

Brands like Lazy Sun, a lifestyle clothing shop on Exchange Street in Portland’s Old Port historic district, recognize that brick-and-mortar retail isn’t about just selling products—it’s about connection. “Shoppers feel burned out by the purely online experience,” said owner Mark Pomykato. “A storefront gives customers the chance to meet us face-to-face and fully experience our brand.”

The Old Port’s charm and pedestrian-friendly layout play crucial roles in Lazy Sun’s success. The shop is both a local favorite and enjoys steady foot traffic from tourists and cruise ship passengers looking to discover something authentic to the area.

Freeport’s Liberty Graphics—a Maine-based screen-printing cooperative with additional locations in Liberty, Camden, and Portland—is equally optimistic about the market’s trajectory. Their decision to open a new store in Freeport was driven by the town’s ongoing revitalization efforts, like the Freeport Downtown Vision Plan. “We were looking for a location that offered strong foot traffic and community connections,” said Jeff Lord, sales manager. The shop’s Main Street outpost is near the iconic L.L. Bean flagship and offers a gallery-like setting for their nature-inspired T-shirts.

Support networks and shared promotion are also key to downtown retail sustainability. Liberty Graphics has quickly integrated itself into the Freeport community by printing shirts for the local Oyster Festival and partnering with Meetinghouse Arts, the city’s arts and culture hub. Lazy Sun shares this approach; they collaborate with nearby business and love to recommend their neighbors to their patrons.

Across Maine, we see city centers embracing fresh retail formats like pop-up shops, food trucks-turned brick-and-mortar eateries, and hybrid retail spaces that foster events and partnerships. We see community-driven programming and events—like 2nd Friday Brunswick and Kennebunkport’s Christmas Prelude—encourage residents and visitors to explore and shop local, further boosting downtown vibrancy. Statewide, Bangor, Bath, Rockland, Norway, and many more centers are undergoing thoughtful restoration and revitalization campaigns, masterfully blending historic charm with refreshed retail scenes.

Despite evolving consumer habits, there’s a strong and growing interest in locally made goods, quality products, and in-person shopping experiences—trends that bode well for Maine’s downtowns. With ongoing investment, creative business models, and a loyal customer base, the outlook for Maine’s downtown retail centers is bright.