Banner Wholesale Grocers Celebrates 100 Years of Family Ownership

Four generations of the Friedman-Saltzman family have led the Chicago-based wholesale grocer since its founding in 1926.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Banner Wholesale Grocers, a Chicago-based wholesale grocer, is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026. The company was founded in 1926 by Ben Friedman and has since been led by four generations of the Friedman-Saltzman family. Over the past century, Banner has adapted to changing consumer demands and demographics, expanding its offerings to serve independent grocers across the Midwest.

Why it matters

Banner Wholesale Grocers' 100-year milestone is a testament to the company's ability to evolve and remain relevant in the highly competitive grocery industry. As a fourth-generation family business, Banner's longevity and community commitment highlight the value of mission-driven, independent wholesalers in supporting local grocers and addressing food insecurity.

The details

Banner Wholesale Grocers operates a 75,000-square-foot facility in Chicago and has built a reputation as a dependable wholesale partner for independent grocers. The company has diversified its offerings over the decades, expanding into ethnic and Spanish food categories, as well as tobacco products, to meet the changing needs of Midwest communities. The current leadership, represented by the fourth generation, is focused on social media, product variety, and continued diversification to reflect modern shopping habits.

  • Banner Wholesale Grocers was founded in 1926.
  • The second generation of leadership, led by Albert Friedman and Irving Saltzman, guided the company from 1946 to 1995.
  • Richard Saltzman led the third generation from 1996 to 2025.
  • Ryan Saltzman, the fourth generation, joined Banner Wholesale Grocers in 2013.

The players

Ben Friedman

The founder of Banner Wholesale Grocers, who led the company from 1926 to 1945.

Albert Friedman

The second-generation leader of Banner Wholesale Grocers, who guided the company from 1946 to 1995.

Irving Saltzman

The second-generation leader of Banner Wholesale Grocers, who guided the company from 1946 to 1995.

Richard Saltzman

The third-generation leader of Banner Wholesale Grocers, who led the company from 1996 to 2025.

Ryan Saltzman

The fourth-generation leader of Banner Wholesale Grocers, who joined the company in 2013.

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What they’re saying

“As we celebrate our centennial, we reflect on our journey while staying focused on the path ahead. 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.”

— Richard Saltzman, President, Banner Wholesale Grocers (theshelbyreport.com)

“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.”

— Ryan Saltzman (theshelbyreport.com)

What’s next

As Banner Wholesale Grocers enters its second century, the company is investing in its people, strengthening partnerships with independent grocers, and preparing for the next generation of leadership.

The takeaway

Banner Wholesale Grocers' 100-year milestone as a fourth-generation family business in Chicago demonstrates the value of mission-driven, independent wholesalers in supporting local communities and adapting to changing consumer demands. The company's commitment to diversification, innovation, and community engagement has enabled it to thrive for a century and position itself for continued success in the future.