From Pita Bread to Global Pantry: The Ziyad Brothers’ American Success Story
How a small Chicago bakery grew into one of North America’s largest importers of Middle Eastern and international foods.
In 1966, on the South Side of Chicago, brothers Ahmad and Ibrahim Ziyad opened Syrian Bakery & Grocery, Inc.—a modest shop specializing in hand-made artisanal pita bread and a handful of hard-to-find Middle Eastern goods. It was Chicago’s first-ever pita bread bakery, and its warm, freshly baked loaves quickly became a local favorite.
The 1970s – Bread as a Catalyst for Growth
By the 1970s, demand had outgrown their small store. The brothers moved into a larger warehouse at 21st and Western Avenue, serving major Midwest retailers like Jewel and Dominick’s as well as ethnic markets. In a groundbreaking move, they built the Midwest’s first automated pita bakery. Ahmad focused on growing sales, while Ibrahim spearheaded new product development, sourcing specialty foods directly from the Middle East.
The 1980s – Becoming a Trusted Leader
The 1980s marked a major turning point. Ziyad Brothers’ distribution footprint expanded to 20 states. A new warehouse supported their growing inventory, and the company became the go-to source for authentic Middle Eastern foods. Their imports diversified, offering a greater variety of products to a rapidly growing customer base.
The 1990s – A New Generation
In 1995, the company acquired a 150,000-square-foot facility in Cicero, Illinois, now its headquarters. The business expanded nationwide, distributing to both ethnic markets and mainstream grocery chains. Ziyad Brothers began exhibiting at trade shows, bringing Middle Eastern cuisine to a broader American audience. Tragedy struck in 1996 with the passing of founder Ahmad Ziyad, but his vision continued under the leadership of the next generation.
The 2000s – Innovation and Expansion
The new millennium brought nationwide reach. Warehouses in New Jersey and Los Angeles strengthened distribution, enabling service across North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Ziyad Brothers’ product portfolio grew to more than 3,000 items, spanning every grocery aisle—from pantry staples to innovative, globally inspired dishes.
2022 – A New Chapter
In 2022, Peak Rock Capital, a leading private investment firm, acquired Ziyad Brothers, recognizing its strong reputation, category expertise, and extensive portfolio. Executive Chairman Nassem Ziyad continues to guide the company’s growth while maintaining its commitment to high-quality ingredients and authentic flavors.
2023 – Expanding the Global Pantry
In February 2023, Ziyad Brothers acquired Vintage Food Corporation, a major distributor of Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Eastern European products. This acquisition expanded the company’s portfolio to more than 3,000 products, ensuring that Ziyad remains a household name for quality and authenticity in international cuisine.
