LEWISTON – Roger Allen is closing Mary’s Candy Shop at the end of the month, or when the chocolate runs out.

He said Friday that after 14 years of working 12-hour days, six and seven days a week hand-dipping sweets and filling display cases, he’s ready for something less demanding. The Main Street shop, opened by Mary and James Lafkiotes in 1933, had been for sale for months.

“Many interested parties came through, but no takers. Many of them didn’t want to work my schedule,” Allen said.

He’s stopped making new chocolates. There are plenty of the popular needhams, almond butter crunches, cremes and truffles left. The store’s cases and kitchen equipment are for sale, too.

Allen said he’s saving some things for sentimental value, like tin chocolate molds from the 1920s.

He ran Mary’s largely as a one-man shop, saying extra part-time help cut into the business’ bottom line. It wasn’t unusual to pull 18-hour days around Christmas or go without a day off that month.

He’s had a good time with the business, Allen said. Regulars have been disappointed.

“I’ve grown up with their families and that’s what I’m going to miss,” he said.

Allen worked in manufacturing before he bought the business. He’s not sure what’s next, apart from a 14-day Alaskan vacation to unwind with wife, Linda.

“I’ve got to go and de-stress,” he said. “She deserves a vacation, too.”