In order to meet demand for it’s iconic rubber-sole boots, Maine-based L.L.Bean has opened a new, larger facility in Lewiston.
The company says this new operation will give it the equipment and employment capacity it needs. L.L.Bean spokesman Mac McKeever says the company now has three molding machines to make the rubber bottoms: two in Lewiston and one in Brunswick.
“We sold over 600,000 pairs last year. This year we’re looking to produce over 750,000, and by 2018 we hope to make over a million,” he says.
McKeever says L.L.Bean is looking to hire more than 100 people, between Brunswick and Lewiston, bringing the workforce to more than 600. He says they plan to run 3 shifts making boots 7 days a week.
