One of the few redemption centers in Bangor will be closing its doors at the end of business on Monday, December 31st.

The owner of Bangor Redemption and Beverage Center says it was a difficult decision to make, but one that had to be made.

It's been a staple on Broadway for over three decades.

People have been coming in to Bangor Redemption and Beverage Center to recycle bottles and cans, and pick up their propane for years.

But, because of rising costs owner Paul Baron says the time is now to close its doors.

"It's just come to the point that with propane that we also sell, that volume has dropped simply because every corner store now sells propane exchange tanks so, my two products that I deal with, for me are becoming less and less used," said Baron.

Baron says he will have to lay off eight full-time employees and one part-time. Many of whom have worked there for years.

But, with the raise in minimum wage, Baron says he has no choice but to close because he can't raise his prices since those are controlled by the state.

"Every small business like my own that has this increase in minimum wage is going to struggle," explained Baron. "There is no question about it. I would have to do minimum of $1,800 to $2000 redemption. That is a lot of bottles and cans. Unfortunately, especially going into the winter months we're just not doing that type of volume. It's questionable come April when we normally get busy if that volume would come back. Partly, because the state has two years of construction planned for Broadway, and any time there is construction you always lose business."

In addition to rising costs, Baron says he's had a hard time finding folks who want to work.

"Even though this is an unskilled job, all you really need to do is count, which unfortunately there's people that can't do that. But, finding people that are willing to come in and do this job is extremely difficult," said Baron.

The building located at 490 Broadway is already up for sale.

Baron says he's not sure what the building will be best suited for, but he hopes the next owner is successful in whatever they plan to do.

"The uses are endless," Baron said. "It just needs somebody with vision."