Harry’s Is The Next Chapter in the HA Mapes Story

After months of anticipation, the brand new Harry’s store and Citgo gas station opened August 2 at the corner of Route 4 and Grammar Rd. The previous store at that location had been leased by fuel distributor H.A. Mapes, Inc. to J&S Grocery & Deli for many years, until the owner retired last year. When that space became available, Jonathan Mapes knew it was a great location to turn into the newest Harry’s.

Until three years ago, the company was leasing all of its retail stores to independent operators. The transition to operating its own stores came more quickly than anticipated, with some owners retiring, other leases up for renewal, and new opportunities. By the end of this year, Mapes will be operating convenience stores at eight of its gas station locations in Maine and New Hampshire. Three of those stores are right here in Sanford, including the new store on Route 4. The Depot on Main St. will be gradually rebranded under the Harry’s name, along with Airport Variety, which the company will be operating by the end of the year. The other five locations are in Saco, Buxton, Lyman, and East Hampstead, NH.

It’s the latest chapter in the story of a company that has deep roots in Springvale. The new and rebranded stores are named for Harry Allen Mapes, who founded the business in 1936. Jonathan Mapes, Harry’s grandson, is President of the firm while great-granddaughter Saunya Mapes Urban is General Manager. In addition to the eight Harry’s locations, the company supplies fuel to 90 independent gas stations across New England.

Roy Boothby was brought on board as Director of Operations for the stores. He is enthusiastic about the company’s heritage, as well as its future. “We’re building on the legacy of the company,” he said about the retail expansion. “Jon is setting the standard, and my job is to breathe life into the vision…I’m excited to see what it will become in ten years.” He said the owner’s engagement differentiates Harry’s from other convenience store chains.

The brand new store is bright and spacious, with all the usual convenience store snacks and drinks, plus several special touches. Hot food including pizza and breakfast sandwiches (and breakfast pizza!) are made right on the premises. Their grab-and-go section also offers sandwiches, wraps, salads, fresh fruit, pudding cups and more. They carry a number of Maine-made products, including Carrabassett Coffee, Todd’s Salsa and Fox Family Potato Chips. Roy also lauded the store’s “killer beer cave,” and fantastic wine selection. A F’Real machine blends your favorite frozen milkshake, protein shake and smoothie flavors. A drive-through window will be opening soon. Stop on down to Harry’s and say hi to store manager Angela Pratt and her crew!

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