How Messer Truck and Van and Fisher Plows Keep Maine Moving

In the heart of Maine, where the winters are as legendary as the work ethic, two industry icons have forged a partnership spanning over 30 years. Messer Truck and Van, a family business with roots dating back to a 1899 blacksmith shop on the Portland waterfront, has become the ultimate destination for those who rely on their equipment to survive the season. By pairing their century-long expertise in truck upfitting with the “made-in-Maine” power of Fisher Plows, they’ve created a bond that isn’t just about business—it’s about a shared commitment to quality that runs four generations deep.

The ultimate display of this community connection is the legendary Messer Plow Clinic. Every year, as the first flakes of snow loom on the horizon, a remarkable scene unfolds in Westbrook: pickup trucks with the iconic Fisher ink splat line up down the street. Some dedicated operators even show up at 2:00 or 3:00 in the morning just to be first in line. It’s a high-stakes tradition where the Messer team inspects over 200 trucks in a single day, ensuring every Fisher plow is ready to go when that snow flies.

For Jeff Messer and his team, opening the shop doors to that line of trucks is like “breaking a bottle of champagne on a ship”—it marks the official start of the season. This isn’t just a service appointment; it’s a gathering of a community that prides itself on using products built right in their backyard. From the historical stories of the Messer family to the sheer scale of the annual clinic, this is a story of Maine heritage you don’t want to miss.

Watch the full video below to see the incredible line of trucks and hear the stories behind this 126-year-old Maine institution!