Bangor Couple Acquires Coffee News Franchise System

Ben and Malorie Sprague have purchased the global publication franchise from long-time owner Bill Buckley.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Coffee

Bold vector editorial illustration of a coffee mug and blank newsprint on a wooden table, representing a transition in media ownership. — Ben and Malorie Sprague have acquired the global Coffee News franchise from long-time owner Bill Buckley, aiming to modernize the publication's reach. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Ben and Malorie Sprague have officially acquired the Coffee News franchise system, bringing the global organization under their ownership. The couple, who previously purchased local editions two years ago, will now manage the entire network.

Why it matters

The acquisition marks a leadership shift for the Bangor-based publication, which seeks to modernize its approach for younger readers while preserving its established print tradition. New ownership aims to bridge generational gaps in media consumption.

Founded in Canada nearly 40 years ago, the Coffee News network now operates more than 300 franchises globally. The Spragues retain control of the Bangor-area franchises they initially purchased two years ago.

The players

Ben Sprague

Ben Sprague is a local entrepreneur and the new owner of the global Coffee News franchise system.

Malorie Sprague

Malorie Sprague serves as an owner and operator of the Coffee News publication network.

Bill Buckley

Bill Buckley is the former owner of the franchise system who expanded the brand into the U.S. market.

The details

The transaction transfers control from Bill Buckley, who originally introduced the brand to the United States during the 1990s. The new owners plan to integrate digital modernization efforts while continuing the company's legacy of print distribution.

Bill Buckley brought Coffee News to the U.S. in the 1990s.
The Spragues purchased the Bangor-area franchises in 2024.
The Spragues acquired the global Coffee News franchise system in Fall 2026.

Culture Shift

This acquisition represents a strategic attempt to modernize a legacy print format against the broader industry trend of the ongoing decline in traditional local print media readership. The Spragues aim to adapt these established community publications for younger, digitally-inclined audiences.

For readers and local business owners, the change in ownership signals potential updates to the publication's content delivery and digital engagement. Residents in the Bangor area can continue to expect the print editions they are familiar with while anticipating new modern features.

The takeaway

Small business owners often find success by modernizing established community assets rather than starting from scratch. Adapting traditional formats to meet contemporary reader preferences remains a primary challenge for local media entrepreneurs.