About 20 minutes from Portland, Maine, on the shores of Casco Bay, is Freeport, home of LL Bean and popular discount retail outlets. For nearly 80 years, this charming coastal town also has been served by Bow Street Market.
Established in 1946 as a small, family-run shop, Bow Street Market has become a local institution in Freeport, recognized for its commitment to quality, sustainability and strong sense of community.
The Nappi family bought the store in 1974 and continues to own and operate it today. Adam and Sheila Nappi, part of the second generation of ownership, took over in 2002 and remain instrumental in day-to-day affairs. The store’s manager, Maria Nappi, who oversees the direct store operations, will be part of the succession in years to come.
In 2011, the store underwent a significant expansion, nearly tripling in size and adding departments such as a full-service butcher shop and organic produce section, as well as increasing its selection of prepared foods.
With these changes, Bow Street Market has been able to position itself as a neighborhood grocery store with a strong emphasis on local products and fresh, high-quality offerings.
Today, the market features local produce, fresh, sustainably sourced meat and seafood, cheeses and craft beers. Shoppers also will find a curated selection of gourmet foods, artisan goods and everyday essentials.
In addition, Bow Street Market houses one of Maine’s largest climate-controlled selections of wines.
Over the years, the owners have invested in technology and practices – including self-checkout lanes and online ordering and delivery platforms such as Bow2Go – to meet evolving customer expectations.
Straight from Maine
Local products are a cornerstone of the market’s business model. The owners prioritize sourcing from Maine-based farmers, fishermen and artisans.
“At Bow Street, our mission is rooted in providing quality products while supporting the local economy,” Maria Nappi said. “We are committed to sourcing fresh, local goods and delivering exceptional customer service. Our operating philosophy is shaped by a dedication to community, family and sustainability.”
Known for its bakery goods, the market features artisan breads baked daily, products made with local ingredients, handcrafted pastries and items from Maine bakers such as Borealis Breads, When Pigs Fly and Union Bagels.
Bow Street’s butcher shop offers locally sourced, sustainably raised meats, hand-cut by its butchers. The owners partnered with Pineland Farms and others to offer a wide selection of items, from grass-fed beef to free-range poultry. The butcher shop also boasts a variety of specialty items, including house-made sausages, marinated cuts and hard-to-find choices like lamb and venison.
The market’s commitment to supporting local extends to its deli department. Looking to showcase products from the region, it features Maine-made cheeses and locally cured meats, as well as sandwiches, salads and wraps. Nappi noted that its freshly prepared foods are free of synthetic additives.
Staff is on hand to offer help, whether that’s to make recommendations on cheese selections or to help plan a special event.
Creating strong partnerships with farmers in Maine, the store’s farm-to-table approach gives customers access to produce picked at peak ripeness. Local favorites include berries, apples, salad greens, potatoes, root vegetables and corn. The department features organic and sustainably grown options, as well as exotic and specialty produce items.
The grocery aisles are another area where the owners spotlight local offerings, including honey, jam, coffee, salsas and dairy. In addition, the store stocks a selection of natural and organic products ranging from produce and snacks to clean-label pantry staples.
Food enthusiasts appreciate the store’s selection of specialty and hard-to-find items, including pastas, condiments, olive oils and other gourmet items.
Beyond offering necessities, Nappi noted that the goal of the grocery section is to invite shoppers to discover new favorites.
Staff can offer personalized recommendations, assist in finding a product and share insight on how it might be best used.
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Not just one type of customer
Nappi described the customer base as a mix of locals and tourists from various socioeconomic backgrounds.
“The diverse customer base influences us to carry fresh, high-quality products for everyday use, as well as specialty items that cater to visitors,” she said.
“Our customers often shop European style, picking up fresh ingredients daily. They do both full-basket and fill-in shopping. If I had to name three reasons our customers shop with us, I would say they choose our market for our commitment to local products, fresh offerings and exceptional customer service.”
Challenges as small operator
Nappi said the market’s other main challenges include competing with larger grocery chains and finding and retaining skilled employees in a small-town setting.
Bow Street Market employs about 77 people. From a management perspective, Nappi focuses on creating a supportive and dynamic work environment. Employees are encouraged to engage in community programs, which she finds fosters loyalty and satisfaction.
Employees receive extensive training on how to provide personalized, attentive service, one of trademarks at Bow Street.
“Staff members are incentivized through recognition and opportunities to grow within the company, contributing to the friendly, customer-first culture frequently praised in many of our reviews,” Nappi said.
In an era of consolidation and large grocery chains, Bow Street Market demonstrates the enduring power of a community focused, locally driven approach. Its success serves as a reminder that independent grocers can thrive by embracing their unique strengths, fostering strong community ties and offering a differentiated shopping experience.