2150 Broadway St,
Baker City, OR 97814
3345 17th St,
Baker City, OR 97814
40224 Hwy 86,
Richland, OR 97870
About Us
Our Story, Your Community
black distributing History
Key Milestones
1929
Established in 1929
The original company that was purchased was founded in 1929.
1970's
Stepping up During the Fuel Crisis
Uniting with local distributors, Black Distributing effectively managed diesel during challenging times.
1963-1971
Evolving Legacy
Founded in 1929 and consolidated over the years till 1971, our history in Baker County is deep-rooted.
1987
Shannon Black joined the team
getting his start in truck maintenance and fuel transportation.
About Us
Our Story
From Humble Beginnings
Established in 1929, then consolidated in 1963 through 1971, Black Distributing is an old-fashioned fuel delivery company with a rich history deeply rooted in Baker County. Over the years, we have evolved and expanded, becoming a staple in Baker Valley and beyond. Our story is one of family, dedication, and a commitment to our customers.
Black Distributing initially started with just two trucks and two dedicated drivers. Bob Black also donned the driver’s hat when needed when he wasn’t filling in everywhere else. In addition to fuel delivery, Blacks also once operated a coal business, serving municipal buildings at a time when coal heating was prevalent. As technology evolved, though, Black Distributing adapted when buildings transitioned to modern gas and electric heating systems. Over the years, we’ve weathered shifts in the industry and remain as the last old-fashioned family business of our kind.
Navigating the Challenges
During the 1970s fuel shortage, while many experienced hardships, Baker was fortunate due to the collaboration among local wholesale distributors. Black Distributing played a pivotal role, managing diesel allocations effectively. This era ended when the local mill reopened.
A True Rarity
Today, with 1,000 statements per month and 500 cash accounts, we stand as a rare entity in an industry where government regulations often hinder startups and buyouts. Black Distributing remains a second-generation, small family-owned business, locally owned and locally employed, with truck routes primarily servicing our local farmers and ranchers. In a landscape where others have disappeared, we continue to serve our community with pride.
Black’s Is Best
We are proud to offer full-service fluid checks and trip checks upon request. Even our least experienced team members strive to provide exceptional service which keeps our loyal customers coming back. We are proprietors, not franchisees, and we believe in the power of everyone pitching in and working together to serve our customers and our community.
Black Distributing initially started with just two trucks and two dedicated drivers. Bob Black also donned the driver’s hat when needed when he wasn’t filling in everywhere else. In addition to fuel delivery, Blacks also once operated a coal business, serving municipal buildings at a time when coal heating was prevalent. As technology evolved, though, Black Distributing adapted when buildings transitioned to modern gas and electric heating systems. Over the years, we’ve weathered shifts in the industry and remain as the last old-fashioned family business of our kind.
A Legacy of Union Oil Distributors
Our journey began when our founders, who were Union Oil distributors in La Grande through 1963, first put the name Blacks onto distribution channels. After spending six years with Union Oil in Washington, we saw the opportunity to acquire several local businesses. This marked the start of our journey, growing from just two distributors to 13 in Baker Valley alone, with additional distributors in Halfway and Richland.
Family and Community First
In 1987, Shannon Black joined the team, getting his start in truck maintenance and fuel transportation. Since then we’ve expanded our operation to include a bulk plant and three filling stations. Our original Baker City fueling stations, located at 2nd and Broadway, Grove and Campbell, and 10th St, stood as cornerstones of the community. We’ve witnessed changes in the city’s makeup and the challenges faced by local businesses. However, our commitment to supporting the community, local businesses, and maintaining a personal touch in everything we do is still the same foundation today as it was in the old days.
First Pick-Up Truck, 17th St Location
First Card Lock
"Nobody's A Stranger Here"
Our Vision |
In a world of corporate consolidation, Black Distributing is dedicated to holding the line and providing competitive pricing without sacrificing quality service. We’ve even added service attendants to make sure we bring our best every day.
Our Bottom Line |
As a full-service wholesale retail petroleum business, our commitment to customer service, community support, and a friendly approach to each interaction sets us apart. While others have come and gone, Black Distributing continues onward as the trusted partner in fuel delivery in Baker County, serving our customers with the motto, “Nobody’s a stranger.”