Machias will be home to Maine’s 14th Pat’s Pizza franchise, an announcement that prompted 135 applications for 24 jobs at the new Washington County restaurant.
The Bangor Daily News reported that applications have poured in for 12 kitchen staff jobs and another 12 servers and bartenders.
The paper reported the restaurant, at 168 Main St. in Machias, will abut a Dunkin’ Donuts franchise and represents about a $450,000 investment. Owner Bill Burke told the paper that he has signed a 10-year lease with property owner Sunrise Opportunities.
With roughly 30 employees, Burke’s restaurant will be one of Machias’s largest employers. Burke told the paper that he estimates about 90% of the applicants do not have jobs.
Washington County had the highest unemployment rate in the state in February, at 12.9%.
See the latest unemployment rates by county in this graphic from the state’s Center for Workforce Research and Information:
