Last updated on June 14th, 2024
Keith Canning, CEO and founder of Sawyer Island Consulting in Portland, Maine, was inducted into the Convenience Distribution Association’s Hall of Fame Feb. 25 at the Convenience Distribution Marketplace in San Antonio.
CDA’s Hall of Fame award is presented to the industry’s most valued participants—those whose careers are highlighted by continual accomplishments on the industry’s behalf, and who have demonstrated unquestioned dedication to CDA’s highest values.
Canning’s first exposure to the industry was at 11 years old, when he was introduced to the family business his grandfather started 78 years ago, Pine State Trading Co. in Augusta, Maine. After working at Pine State during school holidays and vacations, Canning officially joined the family business at 22 after graduating from the University of Massachusetts with a degree in economics.
Canning started in the warehouse in 1987, working his first two years on the night crew. He went on as a salesperson and was promoted to territory manager in 1989 before becoming a buyer for the company. Soon after, he became regional sales manager, then VP of sales. In 2007, he, along with his sister Gena Canning and cousin Nick Alberding, purchased Pine State from his father and grew the company exponentially, resulting in its sale to Core-Mark.
“Keith is a true pioneer in his approach to the business and always looked for ways to make those around him better,” said Mike Auger, RAI Trade Marketing Services Co., Winston-Salem, North Carolina. “His energy, passion and commitment are what has made Keith a true CDA Hall of Famer.”
Kimberly Bolin, CDA president and CEO, said, “Induction into CDA’s Hall of Fame represents a lifetime of achievement and excellence in the convenience distribution industry. Keith has been involved with CDA in many capacities throughout his career, putting forth much time and effort to better the industry and our association. We honor his commitment to the industry and are proud to present him with this well-deserved recognition.”
