LEWISTON – The five stores operated by The Black Stove Shops, Maine’s largest retailer of stove and fireplace products, are now under new ownership, according to Frank Tarantino of Freeport, the company’s new president.

Black Stove is Maine’s leading retailer of gas and wood-burning stoves with showrooms serving five of Maine’s six largest population centers: Lewiston, Augusta, Waterville, Bangor and Portland (Yarmouth). In addition to its broad selection of stoves, Black Stove’s products include fireplace inserts and decorative accessories. More recently, Black Stove expanded into outdoor grilles, lawn and patio furnishings, and garden accessories for the warmer months, as well as flagpoles.

“Our primary reason for acquiring Black Stove was the outstanding caliber of employees throughout the company. We believe they are the most professional group of stove experts in the state of Maine,” Tarantino said. “Black Stove’s reputation for superior customer service is a tribute to their dedication and hard work.”

Black Stove’s annual revenue is estimated to be $5 million. “Our goal is to double sales through expanded product offerings and superior customer service, as well as new acquisitions and store openings over the next several years,” Tarantino said. “Growth creates opportunity for our customers, our employees and the communities we serve.”

Black Stove was founded in 1975 by Ray and Candace Manocchio, who officially sold their interest in Black Stove Inc. on Oct. 1. While the sale of Black Stove was a part of their long-planned retirement, they intend to remain closely involved with the new owners and employees.