GARDINER, Maine (AP) — A central Maine company that distributes products to hundreds of small independent grocery stores is going out of business.

Associated Grocers of Maine says continuing financial losses have forced it into receivership. In an open letter to customers, a court-appointed receiver said the business will be liquidated.

The Gardiner-based company has been in operation since 1953. It serves stores across Maine and into New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts.

A union representative says the company employs more than 100 people.