A Portland institution is celebrating a golden milestone. Zupan’s Markets, the family-owned and operated chain of European-style gourmet grocery stores, is turning 50 – and looking better than ever. With three locations in the Portland metro area, Zupan’s remains true to its roots. Founded by John Zupan, the company is now led by his son, CEO Mike Zupan. Reflecting on the anniversary, Mike shared: “We’re proud of our family’s legacy and deeply grateful for the customers, associates, and partners who’ve supported us over the years.” To mark the occasion, Zupan’s is rolling out year-long celebrations, featuring special deals and collaborations with local producers.
The Zupan family’s story is one of hard work and resilience. Mike’s grandparents immigrated from Croatia to the U.S. in 1945, with his grandfather finding work in West Coast produce markets. Following in those footsteps, John Zupan began his produce career at Sheridan Fruit in Portland (still in business today) before moving to Fred Meyer while attending college. In 1975, John and a colleague bought Zim’s Market in Gresham, Oregon. By the 1980s, John branched out on his own, opening a Thriftway store and expanding throughout the ’90s. In 1994, Mike returned to the Northwest after earning a business degree in Southern California. With a vision for gourmet specialty markets, he helped redefine the family business. The first Zupan’s opened on Burnside – and it’s still bustling today, its parking lot packed with loyal shoppers.
Modeled after European markets, Zupan’s invites customers to shop daily for the freshest baked goods, produce, seafood, and cheeses – often with dinner that very evening in mind. As Mike describes it: “That’s the inspiring part behind our stores – it’s about the discovery for today.” Beyond staples, Zupan’s boasts an extensive prepared foods department, as well as a standout wine and craft beer selection. In fact, it was one of the first grocery stores in Oregon to employ a dedicated wine steward.
For Mike, success come from people as he stated: “Our success over the last 50 years comes from a multitude of things – certainly from our customers who come back every day, week, and month, but also from our people. Their passion and love of food make all the difference.”
While Zupan’s continues to thrive in Portland, the company is exploring opportunities for growth, including a potential expansion into Vancouver, Washington, just across the river. From immigrant beginnings to a Portland icon, Zupan’s is more than just a grocery store – it’s a true American success story that resonates far beyond the Pacific Northwest.
(847) 277-9500