L.L. Bean pulling plug on Portland outlet
The Congress Street store opened in 1996, but the company wants to focus its outlet sales in Freeport.

Briefcase

October auto sales show some spark
Most companies report increased sales from a year ago, a sign that a gradual recovery is under way.

Buffett rolls dice on railroads
The head of Berkshire Hathaway calls the $34 billion acquisition a huge bet on the industry.