Zingerman's Delicatessen

Zingerman's Delicatessen is a renowned specialty food business founded in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Established in 1982 by partners Paul Saginaw and Ari Weinzweig, it began as a small delicatessen and has grown into a community of related businesses. The company is celebrated for its high-quality artisanal foods, extensive mail order catalog, and distinctive approach to customer service and employee ownership.

History

The deli opened on March 15, 1982, in a historic building near the Ann Arbor Farmers Market. Co-founders Paul Saginaw, who had managed a local seafood restaurant, and Ari Weinzweig, a former line cook at the Gandy Dancer, aimed to create a traditional Jewish deli with a focus on authentic ingredients. Its early success was bolstered by its location near the University of Michigan campus and positive reviews in publications like the Ann Arbor News. A pivotal early decision was to source premium products like Vermont cheddar cheese and New York-style corned beef, setting a standard for quality. The business weathered national economic shifts, including the recession of the early 1980s, by cultivating a loyal local following.

Business model and expansion

The organization operates under an innovative structure known as the Zingerman's Community of Businesses (ZCoB), established in the 1990s to manage growth while preserving culture. This model involves creating separate, partner-owned companies that share certain resources and the Zingerman's brand. Key ventures include Zingerman's Bakehouse, Zingerman's Creamery, Zingerman's Coffee Company, and the Zingerman's Mail Order service. The company is also noted for its practice of open-book management and its commitment to employee ownership through programs like its ESOP. This approach has been studied by institutions like the Stephen M. Ross School of Business and featured in case studies by Harvard Business School.

Products and services

The original deli is famous for its oversized sandwiches, such as the Reuben made with Michigan-based Stagecoach Farms pastrami, and its extensive selection of imported olive oil, vinegar, and cheese. The Zingerman's Bakehouse produces traditional sourdough bread and pastries, while the Zingerman's Creamery creates artisanal cheese and gelato. The Zingerman's Mail Order catalog and online business distribute these products nationwide, alongside curated items like Jamón Ibérico and single-origin coffee. The group also operates the Zingerman's Roadhouse, a full-service restaurant celebrating American cuisine, and offers food-related training through ZingTrain.

Cultural impact and recognition

The business has achieved significant acclaim, being featured in major media outlets including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Food & Wine magazine. It has been frequently listed among the top food retailers in America by Forbes and received the James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Retailer. The founders, particularly Ari Weinzweig, have authored influential business books like "A Lapsed Anarchist's Approach to Building a Great Business" that detail their management philosophy. The deli's approach to corporate culture and customer experience has made it a destination for business leaders and food enthusiasts, influencing the broader specialty food industry in the United States.

Community involvement

The company maintains a strong commitment to Ann Arbor through various philanthropic and local initiatives. It is a major supporter of the Ann Arbor Summer Festival and the Food Gatherers community food bank, which co-founder Paul Saginaw helped establish. The business partners with local farms and producers throughout Michigan for ingredients, supporting the regional agricultural economy. It also engages in educational outreach, hosting tours and workshops, and contributes to local events like the Taste of Ann Arbor. These efforts are integral to its identity and its role as a cornerstone institution in the Midwest.

Category:Companies based in Ann Arbor, Michigan Category:American delicatessens Category:Food and drink companies established in 1982