I
n Southern Maine, 12 restaurants closed in just 12 weeks, according to the Maine Real Estate & Development Association (MEREDA). To understand the challenges facing the industry, MEREDA brought together three Portland-area experts for a panel discussion. Josh Miranda, owner of Via Vecchia and Henry's Public House, pointed out that rising costs for labor, utilities, and residential expenses are major concerns.

    "High rents and grocery bills have reduced disposable income for locals," Miranda said, noting that people who once dined out weekly now do so monthly. To support small businesses, Miranda suggested leaving positive online reviews or sharing social media posts instead of cutting back on spending altogether.