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V O L . X X X I N O. I X M AY 5 , 2 0 2 5 16 B U S I N E S S S U C C E S S I O N A N D T R A N S I T I O N F O C U S important to communicate to our team that we're not selling, and we do have a plan to make this a smooth transition. People are used to know- ing who to go to for things. We want there to be no confusion or lack of clear direction." "We're moving into the more chal- lenging phases now, "Sam says. "Adam and Clara need to learn the business, and there's a lot to the lumber busi- ness, not just the product part, but the running of the business." Focusing on growth Both companies are actively strategizing for growth. Sam Collins says, "Our focus is making sure that operationally we're improving every day and getting our processes to run more smoothly. And we're reinforcing our foundation so we can continue to grow. "We're also making changes to make it more attractive to work for us, adding benefits, and we're recruiting more talent." Sam is effusive about his staff but says hiring licensed commercial driv- ers is a challenge, as is finding enough skilled carpenters for the company's millwork shop. "We've recently brought in some CNC machines and we'll be looking for someone who is more able to work with technology. I think that kind of person might be easier to find." As an agricultural business, the McAdams are challenged with harsh weather, which can damage crops and keep customers at home, and they're constantly on watch for fruit diseases and destructive insects. To boost revenue, Polly is expand- ing their online presence, and has been trialling a range of on-farm classes. eir cider business and community supported agriculture program (where customers pre-purchase weekly pick- ups) are strong and growing, they host school field trips and birthday parties, and offer wagon rides and orchard tours. Scheduling more educational workshops for customers is a current push. Polly and Matt attended an agri- tourism seminar but came away committed to keeping the business focused on the agricultural experience they provide, rather than adding light shows and bounce houses. "We have a very strong idea about what we don't want to be doing. We want to encour- age people to come here to be outside and to slow down a little." To ensure that their land remains in agricultural use in perpetuity, the McAdams have a conservation easement on most of the acreage, and they've incorporated the business and land separately. e family is actively involved in supporting other farms in the region. Jack serves on the Sanford planning board and Matt is a member of the committee charged with updating the town's comprehensive plan, in part because he's intent on "conserving farm spaces." Ellen works with multiple agri- cultural agencies and is involved with several research projects focused on increasing crop health, which is vital to sustaining the orchard. At S.W. Collins, Sam sees growth potential through customer service. "We want to be the employer of choice that engages our 'pioneers' in a way that they're motivated to serve our customers and our communities. "We envision our company continu- ing to grow in markets that provide opportunities for our model. And we may continue to grow geographically in locations that fit our business model." Speaking for the next generation, Clara adds, "But we're not growing for the sake of growing. We want to make sure we're being strategic about our choices." Tina Fischer, Mainebiz staff writer, can be reached at tfischer @ mainebiz.biz TRUSTED THROUGH GENERATIONS sbsavings.bank | (207) 284-4591 Photo provided by McArthur Public Library » C O N T I N U E D F RO M P R E V I O U S PA G E Catherine Wygant Fossett, executive director of the Institute for Family-Owned Business F I L E P H O T O / T I M G R E E N WAY The Institute for Family-Owned Business Portland / fambusiness.org What it does: Offers a comprehen- sive range of continuing education programs, networking opportunities and consulting services.

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