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W W W. M A I N E B I Z . B I Z 19 O C T O B E R 3 0 , 2 0 2 3 F O C U S FA M I LY - OW N E D B U S I N E S S MB: Where to next for the company in terms of sales channels, product categories and geographies? SG: We continue to invest in our omnichannel growth strategy to make our assortment more readily available to customers through new channels, primarily through expanding brick and mortar and wholesale. So far this year, we've opened two stores in New England, two stores in Canada (and our first two in the Province of Quebec) along with hundreds of new locations through wholesale partners across the United States, including Academy Sports, Dillard's, Moosejaw and independent specialty retailers. MB: How long will the $50 million flagship store revamp take, and how do you keep customers happy during the current disruptions? SG: e Freeport Experience is a multi-year project that's still in the early phases, so we're a few years out from completion. is is a big project and with such a big effort, there will be some disruptions for customers. When it's complete, we're confident that our customers will enjoy the new shopping experience and the many enhancements we're putting in place. In the meantime, we're focused on providing lots of communication, including easy to follow in-store signage to ensure we're maintaining the level of service that L.L.Bean customers have come to expect. MB: What are some of the learnings you've had since becoming chairman 10 years ago? SG: Having worked in the business for over 20 years before becoming chairman, the first thing I realized is that this is a very different leadership role. As executive chair, I lead L.L.Bean's board of directors and I also serve on L.L.Bean's governance committee (along with two of my cousins), where together we oversee leadership responsibilities for the family. Additionally, I am a member of L.L.Bean's executive team. Ensuring that I'm devoting equal time and energy across these areas of responsibility takes balance. I also had to get comfortable with the concept of 'flying at 100,000 feet,' or operating with a very broad view of the total business versus leaning in on every issue. For me, creating and maintaining that balance has been the biggest learning, not just in my role as executive chair but in all aspects of my life. R e n e e C o r d e s , M a i n e b i z s e n i o r w r i t e r , c a n b e r e a c h e d a t r c o r d e s @ m a i n e b i z . b i z We're proud to offer a wide selection of metal roofing and siding products. Give your home or business the color and style you're looking for with the durability and quality that only metal roofing and siding can provide. NOW OFFERING Screw Down Metal Roofing for just $3.39 per linear foot WAREBUTLER.COM FREE DELIVERY ACROSS THE STATE metals@warebutler.com STANDARD COLORS ONLY Free strapping available for pick-up at our Stillwater and Palmyra locations Visit one of our stores, or email us using the contact form on our website, for more information on these products. Advertised price for limited time Having worked in the business for over 20 years before becoming chairman, the first thing I realized is that this is a very different leadership role. — Shawn Gorman

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