From pita bread to beloved brand
For generations, families from the Middle East have trusted Ziyad to offer the ingredients needed to create the distinct and flavorful cuisines from their homelands. Follow the journey of the Ziyad family and learn how Ziyad came to be the brand that families from everywhere rely on to create authentic, great-tasting Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes.
AUTHENTICITY
QUALITY
TRUST
1960
Every journey starts somewhere…
Our story begins in 1966 when Ahmad and Ibrahim Ziyad founded Syrian Bakery & Grocery, Inc., a small retail outlet on the Southside of Chicago. They specialized in Artisanal hand-made pita bread and other bakery goods as well as a few, hard to find Middle Eastern products—it was the first Pita Bread bakery in Chicago!
1970
Our bread fueled our success
In the 1970s, we expanded to a new warehouse located at 21st and Western Avenue and began serving retail chains in the Midwest including Jewel, Dominick’s, and ethnic markets. We also developed the first automated pita bakery in the Midwest. Production continued to expand, and procurement of new products from the Middle East soared. Ahmad grew sales while Ibrahim focused on new products.
1980
A trusted leader
The 80s marked the beginning of our growth years and our distribution grew to 20 states. We purchased another warehouse to hold our growing inventory. As we expanded into markets beyond the Midwest, we emerged as the “go-to” for Middle Eastern foods. We began to import greater varieties of products for our community.
1990
The next generation emerges
In 1995, we acquired a 150,000 sq. ft. facility in Cicero, IL. which is still our company headquarters. We added sales and marketing and began distributing Middle Eastern groceries to mainstream retailers across the United States. We also began exhibiting at trade shows to grow our customer base. Sadly, in 1996 we suffered the loss of our beloved founder and patriarch, Ahmad Ziyad.
2000
Growing the legacy with innovation
In addition to the Cicero warehouse, we expanded our distribution network by procuring warehouses in both the New Jersey and Los Angeles metropolitan areas. Today we import and distribute over 3,000 items across all of North America, Central America and the Caribbean. Our portfolio of pantry items includes dozens of brands across every aisle of the grocery store. We strive to develop innovative products and seek quality ingredients for growing trends and globally inspired dishes.
And to think… it all started with some tasty bread.
2022
Taking it to the next level
Acknowledging our strong reputation, exceptional portfolio of brands, expansive distribution, and category expertise, Peak Rock Capital, a leading middle-market private investment firm, acquired Ziyad Brothers in 2022. This partnership positions Ziyad brand for additional growth as the brand continues to provide high quality ingredients and innovative products for globally inspired meals. Nassem Ziyad remains as the company’s Executive Chairman.
2023
Expanding our product portfolio
In February, 2023, Ziyad Brothers acquired Vintage Food Corporation, a leading distributor of branded Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Eastern European food and beverage products. With this new partnership, Ziyad expands its product portfolio to over 3,000 products to continue to offer consumers a high quality, delicious assortment of international products. Nassem Ziyad remains as the company’s Executive Chairman.
