Celebrate Labor Day with efforts from New England union workers
Union‑Backed Maine Businesses Highlight Local Products and Heritage
In a showcase of Maine’s union‑owned and union‑associated enterprises, a dozen local businesses are putting their best goods on display. From t‑shirts and pie pans to lobster and crackers, each item carries a story of craft, community, and collective bargaining power.
A “Keep Maine Salty” T‑shirt for the Coastal Spirit
American Roots, a wholesaler based in Westbrook, offers a blue lobster‑themed t‑shirt priced at $25. The shirt bears the slogan “Keep Maine Salty,” a nod to the state’s maritime heritage. The apparel is produced by USW Local 366, a union representing workers in the U.S. Woolen Company’s local. Shoppers can pick up the shirt at 90 Bridge Street, Suite 4147, or order it online through AmericanRootsWear.com.
A Hand‑Made Pie Pan for Vermont Potters
Bennington Potters in Vermont sell an 11‑inch centerpiece pie pan featuring fluted arches. Available in six glaze finishes, the pan is crafted by artisans represented by NEJB Local 341. Retail buyers can view the product in person or purchase it online at BenningtonPotters.com for $52.
Supporting Maine’s Local News
The Maine Trust for Local News Publications, which distributes the Press Herald, Sun Journal, and Central Maine papers, is backed by the News Guild of Maine Local 31128 for its reporters and sales representatives. Press operators are represented by Teamsters Local 3. Readers are encouraged to subscribe—whether in print or digital—to keep local journalism thriving. Subscriptions can be purchased through the Press Herald website.
Lobster 207: A Union‑Owned Cooperative
Lobster 207 stands out as the sole union‑based cooperative in the state’s lobster industry. Owned and run by the members of Local 207, the company ships lobsters and scallops worldwide from its warehouse in Trenton. The cooperative’s online shop, Lobster207.com, offers a range of seafood products and is a popular choice for seasonal gift baskets.
Crackers with a Rhode Island Touch
Seven Stars Bakery, located in Rhode Island, sells a selection of crackers that include every‑thin, old salt, real dill, and spicy cheddar rye flavors. The bakery’s products are certified by UFCW Local 328 and use Maine grains, making them a local‑to‑regional collaboration. A four‑ounce box of crackers costs $7.95 and can be ordered online or picked up at the bakery’s retail location.
Maine Mill: Celebrating Industrial Heritage
Maine Mill, a culture and labor‑history museum in Lewiston, opened its doors to honor the state’s industrial past. The museum, funded in part by the IAM Union, offers exhibits, educational programs, and community events that preserve Central Maine’s stories about work. It is located at 1 Beech Street, Lewiston, and welcomes visitors to learn about the region’s manufacturing legacy.
These businesses exemplify how union representation can coexist with entrepreneurship, providing consumers with quality products while supporting fair labor practices. Whether you’re looking for a statement t‑shirt, a handcrafted pie pan, or a taste of Maine’s famed seafood, these local partners offer a range of options that celebrate the state’s unique culture and community.
