Maine farmers want Hannaford to buy more local produce. What’s the holdup?

PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • August 6, 2026

The Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association started a petition in March to pressure Hannaford, the state’s largest grocer with 68 stores here, to adopt a Maine-first produce sourcing policy. In April, the petition and its then-2,500 signatures accompanied a strongly worded letter from MOFGA to Hannaford. Now, more than 6,000 people have signed on. The farmers argue that, by choosing to primarily source from local producers, Hannaford can eliminate most of the supply chain and shore up produce stock, preventing sudden shortages and bolstering Maine’s agricultural economy. In particular, MOFGA said, carrots, onions and potatoes are ripe for local partnerships. Affordability is a top concern for the company. Talks between MOFGA and Hannaford are ongoing.