Five Guys chain urged to buy Maine spuds
Three members of Maine's congressional delegation are using a "buy local" pitch to urge the owners of Five Guys hamburger franchises in New England to use Maine potatoes to make french fries at the restaurant in Portland and a new location scheduled to open in Bangor.
"As you know, purchasing locally can significantly cut down on transportation costs as well as result in fresher food," said co-authors Sen. Olympia Snowe and Reps. Chellie Pingree and Mike Michaud in a letter to franchise owners Gene Prentice and Jamal Bourdoute. "Additionally, a growing number of consumers in Maine and around the country are keenly interested in supporting local farmers and appreciate having a connection to those growing their food."
This summer, Pingree successfully convinced cruise ship companies to buy Maine lobster when they visit Maine, and she's hoping Five Guys restaurants will follow suit by buying another iconic Maine food product.
"Buying locally not only guarantees fresh ingredients, but it's also good business because every dollar spent locally stays right here in the Maine economy," Pingree said.
An employee at the Portland restaurant, who did not want to be named, told Mainebiz that Five Guys' restaurants nationwide use potatoes grown in Idaho. Giving franchises the option to buy locally is a corporate-level decision, he said.
Most Recent
Most Recent
Comments