In Business For 30 Years, This Maine Cafe Closing For Good

Over the last few years, we have seen way too many local businesses close their doors for good.  These closures came for a variety of reasons.  Some were as a direct result of the pandemic, some were because of the economy, and some closures happened because the owners wanted to retire and were unable to find someone to take over the business.

It appears that Central Maine is losing another business.

According to the KJ, Jorgensen's Cafe, a staple of downtown Waterville for over three decades, will close for good on June 1st.

The business first opened in 1990.  Back then, it was called Jorgensen’s Gourmet Goods.  Over the years, it has changed hands several times.  The current owner, Theresa Dunn, has announced she plans to close at the beginning of next month.

The article explains that Dunn, who operates the business with her daughter, worked there for many years before buying the place in 2017.

She explains that there are several reasons for the closure.  The cost of products keeps going up and it has been hard to find and retain good employees.  Also, the pandemic changed things.  Her customer base is different.  Many of her pre-pandemic regulars have not returned.

Dunn says that, once the business closes for the final time, they'll sell off all of the equipment and fixtures.  The article goes on to say that they plan to donate any remaining food to the homeless.

We're sad to see such a longtime business close and wish them the best in their future endeavors.