Another Sam’s Italian Location in Maine Has Closed Permanently

There's a few homegrown restaurant chains in Maine that have been staples in towns and cities across the state for generations.

One of those staples for many communities has been Sam's Italian.

Sam's Italian started more than 80 years ago in Auburn, Maine, as a man selling his signature version of Italian sandwiches.

Eventually, pizza and more were added to the Sam's menu and more locations of the shop followed. It wasn't just a Lewiston/Auburn thing anymore.

But the last few years haven't been kind of some Sam's Italian locations as rising costs, lease agreements and labor shortages have put the chain in peril.

Sam's Italian Has Closed Permanently in Freeport, Maine

If you haven't visited Freeport, Maine, recently, you might have been in shock to see Sam's Italian Foods missing along Main Street.

That Sam's Italian location initially opened in 1986 and after 40 years in business, there isn't much left behind.

All of the signage has been removed with one remaining message still standing on the board. It says 'CLOSED'.

Sam's Italian in Freeport, Maine, Has Had Struggles in Recent Years

The writing may have been on the wall for the Sam's Italian location in Freeport, Maine.

Just a few years ago, the location temporarily closed thanks to a severe staffing shortage. The company vowed that the Freeport location would reopen eventually.

It did but the restaurant never seemed to be fully staffed. Pair that with several price hikes on items in recent years and it seemed as though the Freeport Sam's was doomed.

Late last year, the Sam's Italian in Topsham also closed. There are 9 remaining Sam's locations throughout Maine.