Sendik’s Food Market is celebrating 100 years in business, marking a century since the Balistreri family opened a produce market in Shorewood, Wisconsin. The Milwaukee-area grocer announced the milestone Jan. 19.
What began in 1926 as a family selling fruits and vegetables has grown into company that operates 18 stores from Grafton to Franklin to Oconomowoc, employing more than 2,000 people.
“Going generations back, our family had a passion for quality food and appreciating customers,” said Ted Balistreri, one of the family members still active in the ownership and operation of the company.
“All of the same principles that our grandparents and parents built the business on still exist today.”
Customer-first philosophy drives growth
Over decades and generations, Sendik’s has maintained one guiding principle – treat customers like family.
The grocer has become a key employer while giving back to the communities that supported it through the years. Stars and Stripes Honor Flight, Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin and the MACC Fund have been charitable partners of Sendik’s for many years.
The company supports organizations from school activities to community fundraisers and has made supporting local suppliers a priority.
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Employees central to century of success
“We believe our people are the reason for our success,” Balistreri said. “Our associates share our belief in treating every customer like family. That’s what has kept people coming back for generations.”
Shoppers can expect a unique shopping experience at Sendik’s, whose stores feature products made from scratch in the deli, bakery items baked fresh daily, top-shelf meats, hand-selected produce and a commitment to quality and service.
