NEW SWEDEN, Maine — Northstar Variety in New Sweden is one of only two convenience stores you’ll see in the 40 miles of Route 161 between Fort Kent and Caribou. The Andersons have created their own niche in the town of fewer than 600 people that has become their home, even as they have seen other business owners struggle for economic survival and close up shop over the past 25 years. In fact, Northstar Variety has become a vital hub for community news and conversations, especially because at least six similar stores in New Sweden and surrounding towns have closed amid declining populations and rising operating costs. “We’ve lost a lot of competitors over the years.