Princeton Forest Products was founded in 1988, operating out of the home and barn of the founders, Stephen and Jan Jones. After leasing space in Shirley, MA, zoning limited the expansion and growth of the company. The warehouse in Orange, MA was completed and the move to the new warehouse finished in 1991. From its inception, Princeton Forest Products' growth moved steadily in the direction of inc
reased warehouse distribution while brokering of direct loads became a smaller and smaller part of the business. Although the economic climate was severely depressed for the lumber business for these first few years, the focus on distribution proved to be timely. The management of Princeton Forest Products made a conscious effort to move toward an inventory of higher-value products. The quality and distinctiveness of the company's warehouse products made them less likely to be bought in straight truckloads by retailers due to the inventory dollar commitment required. Customers preferred instead to buy these items in smaller quantities. A consistent available source of top-quality products and timely shipments are services which Princeton Forest Products customers valued. By the end of 1993, increased sales volume filled the existing facility close to capacity. A third warehouse and warehouse office building were completed. In 2016, Stephen and Jan retired. Princeton Forest Products is currently owned by The Matra Group.
