Mills Market has been a staple of Andover since the 1890s. In its 4th generation of family ownership, this local country store provides a variety of grocery items as well as homemade prepared foods. Located in a prime location for tourists, many local customers have been coming into the market for years as well as their children and grandchildren.
When another local store closed, Mills Market began seeing a spike in revenue despite the pandemic. Business owner Patricia Cox wanted to capitalize on the growth. There was another benefit to the purchase – the recently closed store has the only gas pumps for at least 20 miles. This would attract residents and tourists as well as recreational vehicles such as snowmobiles and ATVs.
Working with Business Advisor Lori Allen at the Maine SBDC, Patricia created a strong business plan and accompanying financial projections. They worked quickly to provide their lender Franklin Savings Bank with all the necessary materials to secure financing to move this project forward. In late 2020, Patricia and her business partner Joe were able to secure the loan to purchase the building and to get the gas pumps working again.
Mills Market is located at 28 South Main Street in Andover and their additional location is just up the street at 25 South Maine Street. Customers rave about their friendly and welcoming staff, their delicious food, and the fact they always have just what you need.
Business Advisor: Lori Allen
To follow this growing Maine business, visit them:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/millsmarket