Ripple effects of high gas prices, soft retail sales and persistent economic uncertainty threaten to make 2026 a tough year financially for many Mainers.
inflation
Posted inBusiness, News
Evo purchase unites 2 Greater Portland climbing gyms in face of economic headwinds
The owners of Salt Pump Climbing Co. in Scarborough have acquired Evo Rock + Fitness in Portland in a move intended to fortify both gyms in a challenging economy.
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Posted inBusiness, Food, Maine, News
Cold weather and tariffs squeeze Maine’s maple producers
A stubborn winter has delayed the start of this year’s harvest by about a month.
Posted inBusiness, Health, Maine, News
Maine’s outgoing hospital lobbyist says there’s no fix for rising health care costs
As Steven Michaud leaves his long-time role with the Maine Hospital Association, he reflected on pivotal events during his tenure.
Posted inBusiness, Maine, News
Eddie Bauer stores in Maine set to close
The outdoor apparel retailer filed for bankruptcy this month and is poised to shutter 175 stores across the U.S. and Canada.
Posted inFood, Leslie Bridgers, Maine, News
Could a $20 burger and beer lure you to a Portland restaurant? | Column
With the rapidly rising cost of eating out, even a grant-funded program of deals might not be enough to entice local diners to leave their homes.
Posted inBusiness, Maine, News
How did prices of Maine household essentials change in 2025?
We reviewed the cost of groceries, vehicles and energy to see how they compare with the national inflation rate.
Posted inBusiness, Maine, News
Who gets a raise when Maine’s minimum wages go up Jan. 1?
Tens of thousands of Mainers, and thousands of Portland residents, can expect a pay bump when the new minimums kick in.
Posted inMaine, Nation & World, News
Social Security recipients get a 2.8% cost-of-living boost in 2026, average of $56 per month
The Social Security cost-of-living increase will go up by 2.8% in 2026, which translates to an average increase of more than $56 for retirees every month.
Posted inBusiness, Maine, News
What Maine’s back-to-school sales tell us about holiday spending
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.