About Pine State Trading Co.

Driven Since 1941
At Pine State, We Are Committed To Exceeding Expectations.
This commitment defines us, It’s who we are, it’s how we approach our customers, the market and our community. We are driven to results, driven to impact and driven to a sustainable future…for our business, our team members and the communities we serve.

History

Charlie Canning Sr., fondly known as “Pops”, started Pine State Trading in 1941 with the deep-seated belief that the best way to grow his company was to help his customers grow theirs. Three generations later, that belief still drives our company. 

In 1960, Charlie’s sons—Charlie Jr. and Jack—joined the company. Building on their father’s legacy, Charlie and Jack kept two things in mind – if they wanted to reap, they had to sow. And sow they did: They sowed enduring relationships with employees and vendors, business owners and buyers throughout New England.

Leadership

Today Pine State Trading is owned by Charlie’s grandchildren: Nick Alberding, Keith Canning, and Gena Canning. With a proud nod to their past and a bright eye on the future, Pine State Trading’s leadership team looks forward to continuing the legacy—smart, sustainable growth for Pine State, its employees, customers, vendors, and community.

The company has grown over the years and is now New England’s leader in the marketing and distribution of beverage products with a customer base that is over 2000 strong and growing…

Why? Because it turns out that taking care of customers and doing the little things right, each and every day, make a difference.  

The Pine State Promise

Every team member at Pine State has a shared commitment to exceed expectations for all our stakeholders. We take pride in getting the job right from the beginning. We are future focused, always pushing forward and improving everything we do. We honor our heritage, upholding the family values that shaped our past and that will ensure our success in the future.

We’re a company of talented and hard-working people who enjoy the growing and diverse world of beverages. For us, it’s a privilege to partner with customers from local, innovative brewers to some of the most time-honored beverages found anywhere.

Our start in 1941 as a truly small business is a constant reminder of who we are. Today, we have become Maine’s leading beverage distributor by working with great customers and by having a team of the most remarkable people in the business.

Community Involvement

Pine State Trading believes our dedication to others defines us. We are proud to give back to the many worthwhile organizations working for the greater good in the communities we serve.

Please click here to read our Charitable Giving Policy