New Gloucester frozen custard-stand calls its quits after 69 years
Hodgsons Facebook page
Family-owned Hodgman's Frozen Custard is closing after 69 years in business.
After 69 years in business, a family-owned New Gloucester frozen custard stand is closing its doors for good, prompting a flurry of reminiscences and tributes on social media.
"We wanted to let everyone know that Hodgman’s Frozen Custard is officially closed and will not reopen for business," the owners said in a Facebook post earlier this week signed by The Hodgmans.
"We want to thank everyone from the bottom of our hearts for an amazing 69 years," they said. "It is the end of an amazing era, but it’s time for our family to close the doors. We’ve loved serving endless frozen custard to this community with more sundaes than we can count. It’s been such a privilege to be a part of your lives for so many years."
Social media tributes have since come in by the dozens, including queries about whether the business might be put on the market.
"I am NOT okay," wrote one fan. "I literally have giant tears in my eyes. … trying hard to be an adult about this awful news. My #1 favorite. I go every week I’m home in the summer. Please sell to someone who will promise to make your exact same frozen custard? And thank you for the many many years of perfect deliciousness. I am gutted."
Calling the closure "the end of an era," another remarked, "Our family has been going there since you opened. Soooo many scoops, jimmies, memories. Thank you for it all!"
The closure follows that of TIQA Mediterranean restaurant in Portland and Sea Dog Brewing Co. at 725 Broadway in South Portland, and evidence that Mainers are eating out less frequently as shown in a recent Mainebiz poll.
Nationwide, the National Restaurant Association issued a bullish outlook in its latest barometer, predicting that "consumers’ desire for the restaurant experience is as strong as ever and will play a critical role in the industry’s recovery."
Interestingly, 84% of consumers surveyed said eating out with family and friends is a better use of their leisure time than cooking and cleaning up.
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