Halfpipe gold medalist Aaron Blunck renews partnership with Mainers while vying for fourth Olympic run in Cortina

Portland, Maine /OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ – Mainers, the Maine-based maker of premium cold-weather gloves and mitts, is pleased to announce the renewal of its partnership with three-time U.S. Olympic halfpipe star Aaron Blunck, reaffirming his commitment to elite performance and rugged, dependable gear as he competes through the final qualifying events for a chance to represent Team USA at the 2026 Winter …

For the Joy of Winter: 25 Years of WinterKids to Air on Maine Public Television

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Kristel Hayes, Marketing & Communications Manager Email: khayes@winterkids.org Phone: 207-871-5700 x 104 For the Joy of Winter: 25 Years of WinterKids to Air on Maine Public Television WESTBROOK, Maine (January 6, 2026) — WinterKids is proud to announce that For the Joy of Winter: 25 Years of WinterKids will air on Maine Public Television as part of the Maine Public Film Series …

Portland Trails Releases Landmark Economic & Community Contribution Study

Portland Trails Releases Landmark Economic & Community Contribution Study New analysis shows Portland’s 100-mile trail network generates over $112 million in annual local economic activity, eliminates more than one million car trips per year, and delivers millions in health, environmental, and property value benefits. PORTLAND, MAINE — Dec. 4, 2025 — Portland Trails has released its Economic & Community Contribution …

Maine Adaptive Sports & Recreation and Hurricane Island Outward Bound School Announce Partnership and New Chapter for Newry Campus

  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 13, 2025   Media Contacts: For Maine Adaptive Sports & Recreation: Amy Bannon-Staats, Co-Executive Director abannon@maineadaptive.org |  (207) 824-2440, ext. 04| www.maineadaptive.org For Hurricane Island Outward Bound School (HIOBS): Kim Ratner, Marketing Director kratner@hiobs.org | (207) 701-1413, mobile | www.hiobs.org   Maine Adaptive Sports & Recreation and Hurricane Island Outward Bound School Announce Partnership and New Chapter for Newry Campus   …

Maine Outdoor Brands Launches Online Storefront Highlighting Local Makers

  Media Contacts: Katie Wolitarsky, KWM PR katie@kwm-pr.com   Jenny Kordick, Maine Outdoor Brands jenny@maineoutdoorbrands.com   Maine Outdoor Brands Launches Online Storefront Highlighting Local Makers PORTLAND, Maine (October 31, 2025) — Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) is proud to announce the launch of the MOB Web Shop — an online marketplace featuring a curated selection of products from Maine-based outdoor brands. …

Main Street Skowhegan Launches Outdoor Recreation Career Pathways Program, Seeks Partner Organizations to Lead Training Modules 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 2, 2025 Main Street Skowhegan Launches Outdoor Recreation Career Pathways Program, Seeks Partner Organizations to Lead Training Modules  Skowhegan, Maine—Main Street Skowhegan is proud to announce the launch of CANOE — Career Access through National service and Outdoor Education — a first-of-its-kind workforce development initiative designed to prepare rural Mainers for meaningful careers in Maine’s growing outdoor …

Maine Outdoor Brands Forms Student Advisory Board to Strengthen Pathways into Maine’s Outdoor Industry

Media Contacts: Katie Wolitarsky, KWM PR katie@kwm-pr.com Jenny Kordick, Maine Outdoor Brands jenny@maineoutdoorbrands.com A vista along the Caratunk to Monson trail. © Brian Threlkeld Photography PORTLAND, Maine (September 25, 2025) – Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB), the statewide coalition dedicated to strengthening Maine’s outdoor economy, today announced the launch of its Student Advisory Board, a collaborative group uniting post-secondary students across …

UMF continues to help grow Maine outdoor recreation economy and workforce with career and networking events, Oct. 1

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE R256-004                                                                                                     EDITOR’S NOTE: Link to images below UMF Contact:  April Mulherin UMF Associate Director for Media Relations 207-778-7081 april.mulherin@maine.edu FARMINGTON, ME  (September 18, 2025)—The University of Maine at Farmington, in partnership with Maine Outdoor Brands, is inviting members of the public to an afternoon of free outdoor recreation career information and networking opportunities. The UMF “Ascend to Your …

New Survey Reveals Key Opportunities to Strengthen Maine’s Outdoor Industry Workforce

Emphasis on work–life balance distinguishes the outdoor industry’s approach to recruitment. PORTLAND, Maine (August 21, 2025) – A new statewide survey of 100 Maine-based outdoor companies and organizations offers fresh insights into the state’s $3.4 billion outdoor recreation economy. In collaboration with Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) and the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation, the 2025 Workforce Needs and Assessment Survey¹ …

New Maine Gear Library Network Launches to Expand Equitable  Outdoor Access Statewide 

Community-driven alliance aims to make outdoor recreation more accessible  Emily Mackeown, Advancement Manager, emily@mainegearshare.org  Josh Bossin, Executive Director, josh@mainegearshare.org  Maine GearShare  657 Old Portland Road, Brunswick, ME 04011  207-200–1876  www.MaineGearShare.org  August 5, 2025  BRUNSWICK, Maine – The Maine Gear Library Network (MGLN), a first-of-its-kind  statewide alliance of gear libraries, has officially launched, providing affordable access to  high-quality outdoor equipment. From …

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WinterKids Launches Free 25 Days of Movement Challenge for Maine Families WESTBROOK, ME — July 21, 2025 In celebration of its 25th Anniversary, WinterKids has launched the 25 Days of Movement Challenge – a free, statewide initiative designed to get families moving outdoors together this August. Participants receive a downloadable digital guide packed with over 100 screen-free …

Good To-Go Adds Two New Meals to Award-Winning Lineup

Dehydrated gourmet meal brand debuts Peanut Chicken Salad and White Bean Chicken Chili as new additions to its chef-crafted collection.   [Kittery, ME, June 23, 2025]—Good To-Go, the award-winning dehydrated gourmet meal brand founded by Chef Jennifer Scism, is expanding its lineup with the launch of two new entrées just in time for summer: Peanut Chicken Salad and White Bean …

Find Your Next Adventure—and the Gear to Match It—With New Online Guide to Maine-Made Outdoor Experiences

Find Your Next Adventure—and the Gear to Match It—With New Online Guide to Maine-Made Outdoor Experiences Maine Outdoor Brands launches Adventure Local Maine to spotlight homegrown gear, guides, and retailers across the state [Portland, ME] – June 24, 2025 – Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) is proud to unveil Adventure Local Maine, a new online platform designed to help residents and …

Maine Outdoor Brands Unites Five Makers for National Industry Showcase at Switchback Spring 2025

# FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE # ### For more information, media inquiries, or to arrange interviews, please contact: Jenny Kordick, Executive Director, Maine Outdoor Brands jenny@maineoutdoorbrands.com | 207-464-0017 Maine Outdoor Brands Unites Five Makers for National Industry Showcase at Switchback Spring 2025 Nashville, Tennessee (June 16, 2025) — Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) is proud to represent the Pine Tree State’s rugged …

Gear Up, Shop Local: New Initiative from Maine Outdoor Brands Highlights Local Gear in Stores Statewide

[Portland, ME] – May 30, 2025 – Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB), in partnership with local retailers, is proud to launch the MOB Shop—a new statewide retail initiative that shines a spotlight on outdoor gear and apparel companies based right here in Maine. Shoppers can now find curated in-store signage and displays featuring Maine-based brands, helping connect local makers with outdoor …

Equinox Guiding Service Grand Opening

Press Release: Equinox Guiding Service Grand Opening FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Noah Kleiner Phone: (207) 619-3957 Email: admin@equinoxguidingservice.com Website: www.equinoxguidingservice.com ⸻ Equinox Guiding Service Celebrates Grand Opening of New Camden Location on June 7 CAMDEN, Maine — May 2025 — Equinox Guiding Service, one of Maine’s premier climbing guide services, is proud to announce the grand opening of its new …

Flowfold Announces Acquisition by Tempshield, Ushering in a New Era of Maine-Crafted Innovation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Flowfold Announces Acquisition by Tempshield, Ushering in a New Era of Maine-Crafted Innovation Gorham, Maine – [4/2/2025] – Flowfold, the Maine-based manufacturer of durable, high-performance wallets, bags and backpacks, is excited to announce its acquisition by Tempshield LLC. This marks a significant milestone in Flowfold’s journey, ensuring continued innovation, quality, and a commitment to Maine manufacturing. Tempshield, a …

Maine Outdoor Brands to Exhibit at Boston Outdoor Expo 2025 with Collaborative Maine Booth

Maine Outdoor Brands to Exhibit at Boston Outdoor Expo 2025 with Collaborative Maine Booth Portland, Maine (February 27) – Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) is excited to return to the Boston Outdoor Expo for a second year, bringing the grit, innovation, and craftsmanship of Maine-made outdoor products and experiences to the region’s largest gathering of outdoor enthusiasts. In partnership with the …

UMF partners with Maine outdoor recreation industry to grow outdoor economy and well-prepared workforce

FARMINGTON, ME  (February 18, 2025)—The University of Maine at Farmington, in partnership with Maine’s four-season outdoor recreation industry, has created a workforce development initiative to help meet the state’s current and future needs for skilled outdoor recreation professionals. Anchored in UMF’s Outdoor Recreation Business Administration program (ORBA), the new initiative, titled the “Western Maine Outdoor Recreation Hub of Excellence,” will work …

Statewide Coalition Unveils 10-Year Roadmap to Strengthen State’s $3.4B Outdoor Recreation Economy

Statewide Coalition Unveils 10-Year Roadmap to Strengthen State’s $3.4B Outdoor Recreation Economy Comprehensive Plan Emphasizes Sustainable Growth, Workforce Development, and Community Investment   MILLINOCKET, Maine — Today, a coalition of industry stakeholders – including Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB), Maine’s Office of Outdoor Recreation, the University of Maine, Maine’s Bureau of Parks and Lands, Maine Technology Institute, and the Maine Marine …

Statewide Coalition to Unveil Outdoor Recreation Economy Roadmap

MEDIA ALERT STATEWIDE COALITION TO UNVEIL OUTDOOR RECREATION ECONOMY ROADMAP Press Conference with Key Stakeholders and State Officials   WHAT: A coalition of industry stakeholders will unveil Maine’s new Outdoor Recreation Economy Roadmap, a forward-looking guide outlining trends, challenges, and opportunities for the next decade of Maine’s growing $3.4B outdoor recreation industry. WHEN: Wednesday, January 29, 11am-1pm – *Press Conference at …

Maine Outdoor Brands and Outdoor Recreation Roundtable Launch Pilot Program to Define Outdoor Industry Jobs and Expand Career Pathways

AUGUSTA, Maine — Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) and Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) have teamed up to launch a new pilot program aimed at strengthening Maine’s outdoor recreation workforce by defining and promoting outdoor jobs. This initiative will focus on research, partnerships, and innovative tools to expand career pathways in the state’s growing outdoor sector.  “Maine’s outdoor recreation industry is a cornerstone of …

MAINE OUTDOOR BRANDS REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS: WORKFORCE DEMAND ASSESSMENT

Request for Proposals (RFP) Workforce Demand Assessment Date: 12/18/24 Proposals Due: 1/17/25 Purpose Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) is seeking proposals from qualified firms to conduct an updated workforce demand assessment for Maine’s outdoor recreation sector. The goal of this project is to gather comprehensive, current data on workforce needs, skill demands, and employment trends among Maine’s outdoor recreation businesses to guide …

Maine’s Outdoor Recreation Economy Surges with 9% Growth, Contributing $3.4 Billion to State’s GDP, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis Reports

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   Maine’s Outdoor Recreation Economy Surges with 9% Growth, Contributing $3.4 Billion to State’s GDP, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis Reports AUGUSTA, ME — November 20 — The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) has released economic data for 2023 exhibiting outdoor recreation’s positive impact on the U.S. economy. The outdoor recreation economy in …

MOB Annual Trailblazer Award Winners Announced

Shaping Maine’s Outdoor Future: 2024 Trailblazer Awards Celebrate Innovation & Impact Portland, ME – November 19, 2024 – Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Trailblazer Awards, honoring exceptional achievements in innovation and collaboration within Maine’s outdoor economy. The awards were presented during the third annual Maine Outdoor Economy Summit at Sunday River; celebrating the passion, resilience, and commitment of …

MAINE OUTDOOR BRANDS APPOINTS MCNEILL AS NEW BOARD PRESIDENT & ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD MEMBERS

PORTLAND, ME (October 9, 2024) — Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB), the outdoor business alliance working to strengthen Maine’s outdoor recreation economy, is proud to announce new board leadership and the addition of three new members to its board of directors. Devin McNeill, CEO and Co-Founder of Flowfold, has been appointed as MOB’s new board president, succeeding Kay Henry. Devin McNeill co-founded …

Vote Yes On Question 4 Campaign Launched

  VOTE YES ON QUESTION 4 CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED TO SUPPORT MAINE TRAILS Leading voices from Maine’s outdoor recreation, conservation, and economic development communities today launched a campaign urging voters to invest in Maine’s trails by voting Yes on Question 4 on November’s ballot. Question 4 will provide sorely needed funding to repair and expand all types of trails statewide by …

Maine Outdoor Brands Awarded Domestic Trade Grant

Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) is proud to announce it has received a $100,000 Domestic Trade Grant, one of 46 such grants awarded to companies and organizations in Maine to boost sales of Maine-made products nationwide. This grant is provided through the Department of Economic and Community Development’s Domestic Trade Grant Program funded by Governor Mill’s Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan …

Investing in Tomorrow’s Leaders: Hazel Crabtree Receives Maine Outdoor Brands Scholarship

Portland, ME – Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) proudly announces the recipient of the second annual Maine Outdoor Brands Scholarship— Hazel Crabtree — a remarkable graduate from Camden Hills Regional High School. Crabtree’s passion for the outdoors and her dedication to shaping Maine’s outdoor landscape earned her the prestigious $500 scholarship, awarded to outstanding Maine graduates committed to advancing the state’s …

Maine Outdoor Brands Showcases Trailblazing Product Innovators at Outdoor Retailer 

Portland, Maine – Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) is thrilled to announce its return to Outdoor Retailer in Salt Lake City for its seventh year — underscoring Maine’s reputation as a vibrant hub within the outdoor sector. In collaboration with the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation, MOB elevates exposure for Maine-based outdoor products, services, and retail brands, with Outdoor Retailer serving …

Maine Trails Bond Approved by Legislature

April 16, 2024 (Augusta, ME) – The Maine Legislature today approved the Maine Trails Bond that would provide $30 million over four years to invest in the design, development, and maintenance of trails statewide. In a strong show of bipartisan support, the House voted 133-6, and the Senate voted 29-3, far surpassing the two-thirds majority votes required to pass bond measures. If …

Maine Outdoor Brands partners with Founded Outdoors  to educate, engage and evolve outdoor businesses

WEDNESDAY APRIL 3 – Founded Outdoors, the national platform for outdoor entrepreneurs, will partner with Maine Outdoor Brands, the alliance of Maine’s outdoor product, service, and retail companies, to design and implement a 2024 programming series that will connect and support outdoor entrepreneurs in the state. Outdoor recreation contributes $3.3 billion to Maine’s economy annually, close to 4% of the …

Recap of Recent Legislative Efforts by Maine Outdoor Brands

AUGUSTA, Maine (February, 2024) – Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) has testified in support of the following bills during the 131st Legislative Session. View the full list of bills we are tracking that have implications for Maine’s outdoor industry here.  LD 1167: The Maine Trails Bond: Promoting the Design, Development, and Maintenance of Trails LD 1167, titled “An Act To Authorize …

Maine’s Outdoor Recration Economy Roadmap: Igniting Growth and Shaping the Future in 2024

MAINE — February 16 — Maine Outdoor Brands, the University of Maine, and the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation have joined forces to initiate the Maine Outdoor Recreation Economy Roadmap, an initiative set to catalyze sustainable growth and diversification within Maine’s vibrant outdoor recreation industry. “This collaborative effort is poised to propel Maine’s outdoor recreation economy to new heights, fostering …

Maine’s Outdoor Brands Shine — 2023 Trailblazer Awards Illuminate Innovation & Collaboration in the Great Outdoors

Portland, ME – Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) proudly unveils the recipients of the 2023 Trailblazer Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in leadership, innovation, and collaboration within Maine’s thriving outdoor economy. Held at the second annual Maine Outdoor Economy Summit in Rockport, the awards showcase the passion, resilience, and dedication of leaders shaping the future of the state’s outdoor industry.  The awards, …

Maine’s Economic Powerhouse: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis Highlights Evergreen Outdoor Economy Gaining Momentum

AUGUSTA, ME — November 20 — The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) has released economic data for 2022 exhibiting outdoor recreation’s powerful and positive economic impact on the U.S. economy. The outdoor recreation economy in Maine grew an impressive 16.5% from 2021 to 2022, according to the BEA Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account. This year’s report shows …

The Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation and Maine Outdoor Brands Announce the Discovery Marketplace and Lineup for the Second Annual Maine Outdoor Economy Summit

More than 30 Maine outdoor brands will take place in the Discovery Marketplace on November 30 The second annual Maine Outdoor Economy Summit, presented in partnership by the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation and Maine Outdoor Brands, will be held November 29 – December 1, at the Samoset Resort. As part of the event, attendees can shop the products, services and experiences from more …

The 2nd Maine Outdoor Economy Summit to Be Held in Rockport Nov. 29 – Dec. 1

Augusta, MAINE – The Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation and Maine Outdoor Brands are partnering again to host the second annual Outdoor Economy Summit November 29 – December 1, at the Samoset Resort. The Summit is the premier event for the outdoor industry to come together and focus on the shared vision of advancing Maine’s outdoor recreation economy. Close to 300 people attended last year’s inaugural event …

MAINE OUTDOOR BRANDS NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

MAINE OUTDOOR BRANDS NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS TITLES: Outdoor Recreation Economy Roadmap Project Management RFP; Outdoor Recreation Economy Roadmap Communications & Public Relations RFP ISSUE DATE: May 23, 2023 PROPOSALS DUE DATE: 12:00pm (EST) on July 10, 2023 Maine Outdoor Brands is seeking two proposals to support the development of a strategic roadmap for growth and diversification of Maine’s …

Maine Outdoor Brands Testifies in Support of the Maine Trails Bond

AUGUSTA, Maine (April 27, 2023) – Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) testified in support of LD 1167, An Act To Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue to Promote the Design, Development and Maintenance of Trails for Outdoor Recreation and Active Transportation. You can read MOB’s full testimony here. The bipartisan Maine Trails Bond bill (L.D. 1156) was introduced by state Rep. Jessica …

Broad Statewide Coalition Announces Support for Maine Trails Bond

AUGUSTA, Maine – More than 260 businesses, towns, and organizations from across the state today urged lawmakers to help make Maine a national leader in recreational and multi-use trails to help bolster our economy, environment, and quality of life. The remarkably broad coalition supports a $30 million Maine Trails Bond (LD 1156) to invest in the design, development, and maintenance …

Skowhegan Hosts Next Roux Institute Start Summit Focused on Outdoor Rec + Tech

SKOWHEGAN, Maine – Northeastern University’s Roux Institute, in partnership with Main Street Skowhegan, Maine Outdoor Brands and the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation is excited to announce their upcoming Start Summit: Outdoor Rec & Tech – a fun, engaging event April 6-7 that provides the opportunity to work innovatively with a team to solve an outdoor rec-related challenge, and the …

Maine Brands Head to Salt Lake City to Showcase the Outdoors, Innovation, and Expertise at Outdoor Retailer Snow Show 2023

Portland, Maine (January 4, 2023) – Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) will attend Outdoor Retailer Snow Show 2023 in Utah January 10-12 with seven brand members, showcasing innovative gear and heritage industry products.  Attendees at Outdoor Retailer will have the opportunity to meet representatives and view products from the following businesses at the MOB Booth (#29029): Brant & Cochran – Heirloom …

Outdoor recreation economy shows impressive growth in Maine, according to new government data

AUGUSTA, Maine (November 9, 2022) – The Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) has released data indicating the impact outdoor recreation had on each state’s economy in 2021. According to the BEA Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account, which measures the economic activity as well as the sales generated by outdoor recreation, Maine’s outdoor recreation industry made up 3.6% percent of …

MAINE OUTDOOR BRANDS APPOINTS FOUR NEW BOARD MEMBERS

PORTLAND, Maine (October 3, 2022) — Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB), the outdoor business alliance working to strengthen Maine’s outdoor recreation economy, announced the addition of four new members to its Board of Directors.  “Our Board of Directors continues to add depth and expertise in areas that are crucial to our work to strengthen Maine’s outdoor recreation economy,” said Jenny Kordick, …

Inaugural Maine Outdoor Economy Summit Announces Full Agenda

Augusta, MAINE –  The Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation and Maine Outdoor Brands have announced the full agenda is now available for the first ME Outdoor Economy Summit. The Summit will be held on October 12 and 13 at Thompson’s Point in Portland with a special International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) Trail Workshop on October 14. As the premier event …

Seven Maine Brands to Exhibit at Outdoor Retailer Summer Show 2022

Portland, Maine (June 6, 2022) – Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) is set to attend Outdoor Retailer Summer Market  2022 in Denver June 9-11 with an exciting lineup of MOB members, showcasing innovative gear and heritage industry products. Attendees at Outdoor Retailer will have the opportunity to meet representatives and view products from the following businesses at the MOB Booth (#36087-UL). …

Maine GearShare Launches Pilot Program

MAINE (May 18, 2022) – Maine GearShare, an equipment lending service for outdoor recreation and a first-of-its-kind collaboration of outdoor brands, funders, and trip-leading organizations, launched their first gear deployment pilot program recently by supporting Teens to Trails on their Adventure Bound whitewater rafting weekend. “Maine GearShare is the result of a truly collaborative process among outdoor-focused organizations, funders, and brands. We all …

Southern Maine Planning and Development Commission Releases Report on Maine’s Outdoor Recreation Industry

Consultant Report Finds Opportunities For Growth and an Urgent Need to Protect Assets Saco, ME (April 12, 2022) – Southern Maine Planning and Development Commission (SMPDC) is releasing the findings from a newly completed comprehensive look at a significant part of the Southern Maine economy – outdoor recreation. The Outdoor Recreation Industry Profile and Strategy Report was completed with Camoin Associates, …

Maine Outdoor Brands forms Workforce Advisory Board

PORTLAND, Maine (April 12, 2022) – Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) announced the formation of a Workforce Advisory Board to help strengthen the outdoor industry’s efforts to attract, retain, and build an inclusive workforce. The board is made up of representatives from MOB member businesses and organizations and co-chaired by Devin McNeill, CEO of Flowfold, and Ponch Membreño, who sits on …

MOB announces annual Trailblazer Awards, honoring innovation, leadership and collaboration in Maine’s Outdoor Industry

Portland, Maine (March 22, 2022) – At the Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) annual meeting held last week at Sugarloaf, the organization presented its annual Trailblazer Awards. The ceremony honored the winners of the Outdoor Innovation, Outdoor Industry Leader of the Year, and Outdoor Brand Collaboration awards.  MOB Outdoor Innovation Award – recognizes a brand or organization for an innovative product or …

New Compass Program to Support Emerging Outdoor Businesses and Entrepreneurs

PORTLAND, Maine, February 16, 2022 – The Maine Center for Entrepreneurs (MCE) announced today that it is partnering with Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) to provide in-depth training and networking to outdoor industry product, service, and retail companies seeking to expand their businesses. The new ten-week program called MCE Compass, is made possible by a grant awarded from the Maine Community …

Five Maine brands to exhibit at Outdoor Retailer Snow Show in Denver, Colorado

MAINE (January 20, 2022) – Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) and the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation are set to attend Outdoor Retailer Snow Show 2022 in Denver with an exciting line up of MOB members, showcasing innovative gear and heritage industry products. The outdoor industry in Maine is steeped in history and tradition and it still captures popular imagination as …

Adventure Plate Campaign Suspended Due to State Moratorium on New Speciality Plates

Update: February 24, 2022 We want to thank everyone who weighed in with the legislature’s transportation committee in the last few weeks. Regrettably, the bill to exempt already approved specialty plates from the moratorium failed to pass. While good-intentioned from the onset, the license plate program, they felt, was in need of stricter rules and guidelines. The Adventure plate was, …

Maine ranked 5th in the value outdoor recreation added to statewide GDP in 2020

  Boating, biking, and manufacturing drove Maine’s outdoor recreation economy in a challenging pandemic year AUGUSTA, Maine (November 9, 2021) – The Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) has released data indicating the impact outdoor recreation had on each states’ economy in 2020. According to the report, which measures the economic activity as well as the sales generated …

Maine Outdoor Brands Appoints Kay Henry as New Board President

PORTLAND, Maine (September 30, 2021) — Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB), the outdoor business alliance working to strengthen Maine’s outdoor recreation economy, is pleased to share a leadership shift leading into the new year: Kay Henry succeeds Jim Hauptman as Maine Outdoor Brands’ board president.  Kay Henry has been a MOB board member for three years, but her experience in the …

Maine Outdoor Startups Achieve Early Fundraising Success

WATERVILLE, ME (September 28, 2021) Three outdoor recreation startups based in Maine have received funding from Maine Technology Institute to advance product development projects totaling $76,000 in scope. Each startup is a graduate of the Waterville-based Tortoise Labs product design course, which begins a new session on October 14th. With its focus on early-stage idea generation and validation, Tortoise Labs …

State Outdoor Business Alliances Collaborate to Elevate the Importance of Outdoor Recreation to Local Economies

Bozeman, MT (June 8, 2021) – Outdoor recreation contributes to economic success in many ways and will help lead recovery from the pandemic, according to a new report released by the State Outdoor Business Alliance Network (SOBAN), a new network of business organizations that share knowledge, opportunities, and best practices to strengthen commerce, infrastructure, and participation in the outdoors. The report …

Investments in Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Can Support Maine’s Outdoor Economy

PORTLAND, Maine (May 26, 2021) – Maine’s $3 billion outdoor economy and success as an attractive place to live, work and visit depends on having robust outdoor recreation infrastructure including local parks and recreation areas, larger-scale conservation projects to draw visitors to rural Maine, trail networks, and accessible information about all of it. COVID-19 has driven unprecedented demand for outdoor experiences and has exposed …

Survey results show workforce opportunities and challenges for Maine’s outdoor industry

PORTLAND, Maine (May 5, 2021) – A Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) member survey, in partnership with the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation, found that while employers in Maine’s outdoor industry are attracting a younger workforce, it remains difficult to fill open positions. A survey was conducted in early 2021 by the Survey Research Center at the Muskie School of Public Service at …

Testimony in Support of Land for Maine’s Future

PORTLAND, Maine (April 26, 2021) – Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) submitted testimony in support of LD 983, An Act To Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue To Promote Land Conservation, Working Waterfronts, Water Access and Outdoor Recreation, and LD 687, An Act To Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue To Promote the Conservation of Land, Working Waterfronts, Water Access and …

Testimony in Support of LD700

PORTLAND, Maine (March 25, 2021) – Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) submitted testimony in support of LD 700 “An Act To Promote Economic Development and Outdoor Recreation through Investment in State Parks” to the Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. You can read the full letter here. Formed in 2017, Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) works to unite and provide a voice for Maine’s …

Awards Honor Innovation, Leadership and Collaboration in Maine’s Outdoor Industry

PORTLAND, Maine (February 2, 2021): Maine’s outdoor industry leaders recently gathered to live stream the Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) Trailblazer Awards Ceremony. The ceremony honored MOB’s Outdoor Innovation, Outdoor Industry Leader of the Year, and Outdoor Brand Collaboration award recipients. The 2021 award recipients are the Portland Gear Hub’s Bikes for All Mainers program, Back40’s Henry Gilbert, and Maine Island …

New Report Details Outdoor Recreation’s Economic Impact in Maine and Nationally

Maine ranks in the top five across the country in the value outdoor recreation adds to statewide GDP PORTLAND, Maine (November 10, 2020) – For the second year, the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) released statistics showing the role that outdoor recreation plays in each state’s economy. According to the report, which focuses on 2019 data, Maine’s …

New Maine ADVENTURE Plate Aims to Strengthen Maine’s $3B Outdoor Recreation Economy While Inspiring More Opportunities for Outdoor Recreation

PORTLAND, Maine (August 19, 2020) – Launched this month by Maine Outdoor Brands, the ADVENTURE specialty plate provides a way for Maine vehicle owners to show their support for Maine’s growing outdoor recreation industry – including all the outdoor gear manufacturers, outfitters, youth trip leading organizations and more – whose products and services enable more Mainers to get outdoors. Maine …

MOB Launches Adventure Local Maine

Adventure Local Maine seeks to inspire discovery and promote local outdoor recreation this summer. PORTLAND, Maine (May 21, 2020) – Maine Outdoor Brands, the alliance of Maine’s outdoor product, service and retail brands, today announces the launch of Adventure Local Maine — a collaborative campaign amongst Maine’s outdoor businesses to promote local, outdoor recreation this summer. Outdoor recreation is vital …

Supporting Community COVID-19 Needs

Portland Paddle – 5/15/20 switched to a pay-what-you-can model to support local Mainer’s experiencing financial hardship. Flowfold – 6/5/20 has retooled its facility to manufacture face shields for hospitals. SeaBags – 5/12/20 began making masks, donating its first batch to senior living facilities, and eventually offering them for sale to retail customers. American Roots – 4/2/20 has pivoted to making …

COVID-19 Impacts & Recommendations

Formed in 2017, Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB) represents 100+ businesses and organizations in the state of Maine that are enabling outdoor recreation, from outdoor gear makers to guiding companies. For us, outdoor recreation and economic opportunity are inextricably linked. At 4.8%, outdoor recreation makes up a larger percentage of Maine’s economy than almost any other state and is currently growing …

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Response Resources

Letter sent to Maine Dept. of Economic & Community Development – highlighting the importance of the outdoor recreation industry in reopening and recovery (May 4) Member feedback and questions on plan to restart Maine’s economy Initial COVID-19 impacts and recommendations (updated March 30) The Mills administration did approve $9million in grants to 96 municipalities across the state of Maine last …

Outdoor Retailer Summer Market FAQ

In June, Maine Outdoor Brands will be exhibiting once again at the largest outdoor industry trade show in North America, Outdoor Retailer. Held in Denver, Outdoor Retailer (or “OR”) is a major opportunity to get your brand and products in front of retailers, buyers, and the media.  MOB members have the added benefit of exhibiting in the MOB booth for …

New National Report Details Outdoor Recreation’s Economic Impact in Maine 

Maine ranks third across the country in the value outdoor recreation adds to statewide GDP PORTLAND, Maine (September 23, 2019) – For the first time ever, the Department of Commerce ‘s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) released initial statistics showing the role that outdoor recreation plays in each state’s economy. According to the data, Maine’s outdoor recreation industry makes up a larger …

July 2019

If you read nothing else … The three most important things for you to know. Limited tickets are available for MOB’s July member event: a Casco Bay boat cruise and tour of Fort Gorges on Thursday, July 25th. Get your ticket today! Fourteen Maine Outdoor Brands attended the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market in Colorado, the largest contingent of Maine companies to date. …

June 2019

If you read nothing else … The three most important things for you to know. Welcome to Jenny Kordick, MOB’s new Executive Director! Read on to learn more about Jenny. Be sure to follow along on Facebook and Instagram to see what our members are up to at Outdoor Retailer later this month, and of course how they are spending summer in Maine. We’re more than happy …

April/May 2019

If you read nothing else … The three most important things for you to know. Join us next Wednesday the 8th for a happy hour at Flight Deck Brewing Co! Learn more about Maine’s Director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation in this SNEWS article MOB t-shirts are now available! See below for how to purchase. Upcoming events Mark your calendar …

March 2019

If you read nothing else … The three most important things for you to know. We’re heading to Summer OR and have two great packages available to members. Read on for more information! We have MOB swag! Scoll down and be the first to purchase our limited edition t-shirts! Share your opinion on Maine’s Outdoor Recreation Priorities by completing the SCORP …

February 2019

  If you read nothing else … The three most important things for you to know. We’re heading to Summer OR! Mark your calendars (June 18-20) and stay tuned for more information. MOB will be at the Hall of Flags March 26th to meet with legislators. Come show your support! Since it’s launch last month, over 1,500 people have visited the new …

January 2019

If you read nothing else … The three most important things for you to know. Be on the lookout for a survey at the end of January! Download a member badge to put on your website. MOB was featured on a podcast! Listen below. Mark your calendar for these can’t miss events. Wednesday, February 6th, 8-9:30am Breakfast Briefing: Ask an Expert: Digital Marketing …

December 2018

If you read nothing else … The three most important things for you to know. Get your annual report! Check out our generous member pro-deals, just in time for the holidays. THANK YOU for an amazing first year, and be on the lookout for an email from our membership committee about 2019 renewals. Mark your calendar for these can’t miss …

November 2018

If you read nothing else … The three most important things for you to know. Love a good discount? We’re compiling a list. Check out MOB’s video premiere on Facebook on November 8th! Two members were featured in Forbes this month! Read the articles below. Mark your calendar for these can’t miss events. November 8th, 2pm Premiere of Maine Makers: …

October 2018

The three most important things for you to know. Three MOB member’s headed to Washington, DC last month to #SaveLWCF — read more about their experience and the progress that was made below. We’ve had a lot of members in the news this month, check them all out here! Please take a minute to complete this important SNEWS Survey Mark your calendar for these …

September 2018

The three most important things for you to know. Interested in how company culture can impact your business? RSVP for our next Breakfast Briefing! MOB is growing, and so is the Advisory Board! Read below for more info on how you can get involved. It’s time to start thinking about Outdoor Retailer: Winter Market! MOB has some exciting new things in store …

Top Tips for an Effective OR

The Outdoor Retailer tradeshow is big, and so is MOB’s series of OR tips. As you prepare for the summer show in Denver, here are some final thoughts from MOB members on making the show a success for your brand. Thanks to the following MOB members for contributing: James Morin, Flowfold  Alicia MacLeay, Trailspace  Cathy Streifel, Pyxie  Scot Bahr, Cairn …

Top Tips from Outdoor Retailer Media and PR

Outdoor media has an audience. You have an outdoor brand you want to connect with that audience. So how do you get the two together for some media attention?  We asked Nancy Fendler, of Fendler PR, and Alicia MacLeay, of Trailspace, to share their PR and media tips for building relationships with working media (editors, writers, and  photographers) who cover …

Top Tips from Outdoor Retailer Buyers

— Alicia MacLeay, Trailspace (LINK) Connecting with buyers is the key goal of brands at the Outdoor Retailer tradeshow. But building productive relationships in a frenetic four days is challenging. So what advice do experienced retail buyers offer other buyers and outdoor brands to make it a success? In this first in a MOB series of tips for Outdoor Retailer …

What is Outdoor Retailer?

In July, Maine Outdoor Brands will be exhibiting at the largest outdoor industry tradeshow in North America, Outdoor Retailer. Held in Denver, Outdoor Retailer (or “OR”) is a major opportunity to get your brand and products in front of retailers, buyers, and the media. MOB members have the added benefit of exhibiting in the MOB booth for just $695-$995*, a …

July 2018

The three most important things for you to know. Join us in welcoming our newest MOB member, OpBox! Read more about this awesome Maine brand below, and stay tuned for more info about a possible collaboration with them later this summer! Summer Market at OR was a blast and we left feeling energized and excited about things we learned and observed. MOB member Blaze will be …

June 2018

The three most important things for you to know. There are still spots available to exhibit with MOB at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market in Denver on July 23-26! Questions? Want insider tips? Follow our upcoming series! See the first installment, “OR Tips from Buyers,” below or email Brian Threlkeld, brian@maineoutdoorbrands.com Sponsorship opportunity! Exhibit at the Teens to Trails L.L. Bean’s Life Happens Outside Festival on Friday August …

May 2018

The three most important things for you to know. MOB’s headed to the OutDoor Show in Germany and Outdoor Retailer in Denver. We have a nice group of member brands lined up for both and there’s still room for more. Reach out to info@maineoutdoorbrands.com to register. We joined OIA’s Capital Summit in Washington, D.C. in April to lobby for the …

February 2018

Contents EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT MEMBER SURVEY TOPLINE OR RECAP FIRST BREAKFAST BRIEFING MEMBER EVENTS PRESIDENT’S UPDATE OUTDOOR INDUSTRY FACTS – George Kiesewetter, Executive Director This past January was a full-on sprint to get ready for the Outdoor Retailer winter trade show in Denver. We had a terrific response to our MOB booth there and lots of positive PR. Thanks to …

January 2018

Contents BOARD REPORT MEMBERSHIP MEMBER EVENTS OUTDOOR RETAILER MOB JOBS MOB COMMUNICATIONS Jim Hauptman, Blaze Partners One year ago, while out in Salt Lake City attending Outdoor Retailer, a handful of us met for beers and kicked around the idea of establishing an alliance of Maine outdoor brands. Little did any of us know—or could have imagined—what MOB would become …