Retail Merchandiser Volume 63, Issue 2 Volume 63, Issue 2 | Page 71

Rusty Lantern Markets
“ We also sell fresh Maine lobster rolls from Memorial Day to Labor Day ,” he continues . “ Most of the menu is available made-toorder and grab-and-go . On the drinks side of things , our coffee is roasted in Portland , Maine , and our self-serve coffee is made by bean-to-cup machines , ensuring every cup is ground fresh and served hot .”
Custom hot and cold beverages , including lattes , cappuccinos , nitro and regular cold brews , as well as smoothies and refreshers , are also available . Simply put , there is something for everyone .
Connecting with community
Recently , the brand purchased several stores from Mallard Mart to bring Rusty Lantern ’ s products to even more customers . “ In August 2022 , we acquired four new locations ,” John explains . “ By November , we had added two more in Turner , bringing our total store count in Maine to 18 . That worked to not only complement our current base of Rusty Lantern locations , but logistically it supports our plans to expand westward .”
Like its customers , Rusty Lantern is also on a journey . The company has big plans , but at the heart of that journey is connecting with the community . “ As a business , we put a great deal of emphasis on integrating with the communities we serve ,” says John . “ Many of our sites feature colonial-style architecture , which is popular in New England ; they are large , well-lit , and well-appointed , creating a welcome and safe environment for all .
“ Naturally , we encourage some deviation per store in terms of our product mix ,” he admits . “ This is essential for us to tailor our offerings to each individual market . That being said , all our stores have a great selection of local , craft , and Maine-based products from ‘ mom-and-pop ’ suppliers . In
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