Staff Writer

Morgan and Zack Potvin have discovered that school can be sweet.

The Potvin family recently opened Candy Crossing on Main Street in Biddeford as a real-life lesson in running a small business for 12-year-old Morgan and 15-year-old Zack, who are both home-schooled.

Chico Potvin said he bought the former Picard’s Feed and Grain building six years ago. He created a two-story residence for his family and thought about using the storefront for his housing development business.

Instead, Chico Potvin and his wife, Angie, came up with the idea to open the candy store as a home-school project. They draw on their past retail experience running Potvin’s Market in Old Orchard Beach.

“This could be the Way Way Store of this town,” he said, referring to a penny candy store in Saco that is set to reopen this year. “People say it reminds them of that store.”

Morgan Potvin and Zack Potvin were involved with setting up Candy Crossing from the beginning. Their father brought them to meetings with codes officers and to city hall to learn about permitting.

“It’s just great learning,” Chico Potvin said.

The entire family helped design the shop. Zack Potvin helped construct shelves from salvaged wood, while Morgan Potvin named the store for is location next to railroad tracks. Together they poured over catalogues to choose which candy to stock.

Chico Potvin said he had to explain to his children what some of the old-fashioned candies are, including candy cigarettes now marketed as “candy sticks.”

Morgan Potvin said she had to learn how to look at wholesale prices to determine how much each item should be sold for.

“We’ve learned tons of things about business and how to make a profit,” she said. “It’s really cool. My friends all think it’s really cool too.”

Like his sister, Zack Potvin covers the cash register when needed and stocks shelves. They each work about 10 hours per week.

“I just like to see people happy when they come in,” he said. “Kids love it, but the adults have more fun than the kids.”

Morgan Potvin sells wallets she makes using duct tape. She and her mother also create themed gift baskets that feature different types of candy and treats. Chico Potvin said he also stocks basic grocery items that neighborhood residents need.

Angie Potvin said working in the store provides her children more than just lessons in math and customer service.

“It helps us learn how to work with each other, which is very important in a family,” she said.

While Chico Potvin does not expect the store to generate a lot of money, he said he hopes it will help pay for his children’s college education. He also hopes it will help energize the community on the outer section of Main Street.

“This is like the lost downtown,” he said. “It’s a little community here. To grow this city we need to create these little communities.”

Candy Crossing is located at 381 Main St. and is open Wednesday through Sunday.