Mike Clukey was a regular customer at George’s Sandwich Shop on Franklin Street in Biddeford for several years.
In fact, he liked the sandwiches so much that he jumped at the opportunity to purchase the iconic Biddeford landmark a little more than three years ago.
“We have a fantastic crew, and they are the ones responsible for our success,” Clukey said.
When asked if an ongoing sewer upgrade project is hurting his business, Clukey, 56, shrugged his shoulders.
“It’s hard to tell,” he says. “It’s weird. There are a lot of things at play this year, from inflation to a lot of rainy weekends. Things have been up and down, but yes . . . people are talking about the traffic.”
First made in 1948 by the Ladakakos family, George’s Italian-style sandwiches have since achieved near legendary status in Biddeford and surrounding communities.
“When you think of Biddeford, there are really three businesses that stand out,” Clukey said. “Pizza By Alex, Reilly’s Bakery and George’s”
Clukey said he and his team are absolutely committed to carrying on the traditions that have made George’s a popular take-out destination for more than 70 years.
“John and Joan [Ladakakos] worked closely with us, training and teaching us about every little detail that makes a sandwich from George’s extra special,” he said..
Clukey said he uses the same vendors for all of his products, and still purchases his fresh bread from Botto’s Bakery in Portland.
“We strive every day to deliver the same quality sandwich that people have come to expect from George’s,” Clukey said.
But Clukey said there is much more to George’s than just delicious sandwiches. “We really work to be an active part of the community,” he said, pointing out how his businesses has work to raise funds for various non-profit organizations.
With seven employees, Clukey says it’s team effort to make it all work and said DoorDash delivery options have become the store’s “bread and butter.”
Still located in their original Franklin Street location, George’s is open Sundays, from 10am to 2pm; Mondays, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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