BRIGHTON, Mich. – HDA Truck Pride member Pine Bluff Truck and Trailer recently marked its 50th Anniversary with a customer appreciation banquet honoring its dedicated customers and employees.
 
Pine Bluff Trailer Manufacturing was founded in 1962 by Harold Staton. Early on, Don Miller join Pine Bluff as service manager, and both Staton and Miller both had experience with trailer repairs. When Staton saw the opportunity to open his own business, he took the chance. The term “mobile repair” had not yet been coined, but it was the norm back then to make a “night run” to handle a trailer repair for a customer. Pine Bluff was well-known in its marketplace for custom trailer modifications and custom built trailers.
 
By 1976, the company had outgrown its original building and relocated to its current location in Pine Bluff, Ark. As business evolved, the manufacturing segment decreased, while parts and service became the company’s path for the future. In 2000, the company became a member of HD America, which enhanced its product diversification and access to a selection of high-quality suppliers. In 2001, the name was changed to Pine Bluff Truck and Trailer. And in 2003, the business moved into a new facility, housing 10 bays, a parts showroom, warehouse and offices all under one roof.
 
Pine Bluff says while the company has grown and evolved, some things remain the same: Miller still works part time; and even Staton tried to retire, but it didn’t last. He still works every day.
 
More than 400 customers attended the company’s 50th Anniversary Customer Appreciation Banquet this fall.