Chicago-based Banner Wholesale Grocers is marking its 100th anniversary in 2026, a milestone that spans four generations of family leadership and a century of serving independent grocers across the Midwest. 
Founded in 1926 by Ben Friedman, Banner has built its reputation as a dependable wholesale partner through economic cycles, shifting consumer demands and significant changes in the grocery landscape. The company operates from a 75,000-square-foot facility at 2639 South Damen Ave. on the Chicago River.
“As we celebrate our centennial, we reflect on our journey while staying focused on the path ahead,” said Richard Saltzman, president of Banner Wholesale Grocers and third-generation leader. “We’re proud of our longevity, the relationships we’ve built along the way and the communities we serve. Being a fourth-generation family business in Chicago is something we feel immense pride in, and it continues to guide how we think about the next century.”
Four Generations Of Leadership
Ben Friedman founded Banner Wholesale Grocers in 1926 and led the company through 1945, establishing it as a trusted source for staple grocery items including canned goods and everyday essentials at a time when reliability and access were paramount.
The second generation – led by Albert Friedman and Irving Saltzman – guided Banner from 1946 to 1995, overseeing growth and diversification into ethnic and Spanish food categories and tobacco products, responding to demographic shifts and the evolving makeup of Midwest communities.
Richard Saltzman led the third generation from 1996 to 2025, expanding Banner’s offerings in Mexican and Central American foods and aligning the company with fast-growing consumer demand. That focus helped independent grocers better serve their neighborhoods.
The fourth generation is represented by Ryan Saltzman, who joined Banner Wholesale Grocers in 2013. His focus includes social media, broader product variety and continued diversification to reflect modern shopping habits and cultural trends.
“Each generation faced its own challenges and learned important lessons along the way,” Ryan Saltzman said. “The biggest lesson across 100 years has been the importance of diversification and adapting to what customers want. Every era required new thinking and innovative products to meet consumer demand.”
Community Commitment
Banner Wholesale Grocers maintains an active role in the Chicago community. Each year, the company sponsors a race benefiting the Chicago Park District, contributing a donation to support the city’s parks. Past events have drawn more than 350 attendees and included giveaways and family-friendly activities. Banner also donates canned and packaged food to local food banks each month, helping address food insecurity across the region.
As it enters its second century, the company is investing in its people, strengthening partnerships with independent grocers and preparing for the next generation of leadership.
More information is available at bannerwholesale.com.
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