In the heart of Ann Arbor, Michigan, on Detroit Street, stands a culinary institution that has captured the palates and hearts of locals and visitors alike for decades: Zingerman’s Delicatessen. Founded in 1982 by Ari Weinzweig and Paul Saginaw, Zingerman’s began as a humble deli with a $20,000 bank loan and a vision to offer exceptional food and service. Ari, armed with a Russian History degree from the University of Michigan, four years of kitchen experience, and entrepreneurial spirit from Chicago, partnered with Paul to create what would become a nationally celebrated food destination. Starting with just two employees and a curated selection of specialty foods and outstanding sandwiches, they laid the foundation for what Zingerman’s Delicatessen is today.
Zingerman’s Delicatessen, situated on Detroit Street in Ann Arbor, has since evolved into a nationally recognized food icon. More than just a deli, it is the cornerstone of the Zingerman’s Community of Businesses, which has expanded to encompass ten diverse businesses, employing over 750 individuals and generating over $55 million in annual revenue. This thriving community includes Zingerman’s Bakehouse, renowned for its artisanal breads and pastries; Zingerman’s Coffee Company, sourcing and roasting exceptional coffees; Zingerman’s Creamery, crafting handmade cheeses and gelato; Zingerman’s Roadhouse, celebrating American regional cuisine; Zingerman’s Mail Order, bringing Zingerman’s flavors nationwide; ZingTrain, sharing Zingerman’s business philosophy; Zingerman’s Candy Manufactory, creating nostalgic and gourmet sweets; Cornman Farms, a sustainable farm and event space; and even a Korean restaurant, Miss Kim, which opened in 2016. Despite their diversity, each business within the Zingerman’s Community operates under the same guiding principles and vision, all committed to delivering “The Zingerman’s Experience” with unwavering passion.
Ari Weinzweig’s influence extends beyond his role as Co-Founding Partner. He remains deeply involved in the daily operations and governance of nearly every business in the Zingerman’s Community. Adding to his multifaceted persona, Ari is a prolific writer and thinker. He is the author of the acclaimed six-book series, “Zingerman’s Guide to Good Leading.” The series includes titles such as “A Lapsed Anarchist’s Approach to Building a Great Business,” “Being a Better Leader,” “Managing Ourselves,” and “The Power of Beliefs in Business.” His earlier works, the “Zingerman’s Guides,” delve into his passion for food, covering topics from great service and better bacon to good olive oil, vinegar, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
Beyond Ann Arbor, Ari is a sought-after speaker and educator. Representing ZingTrain, he travels extensively, sharing Zingerman’s unique business approach with organizations worldwide. He has delivered keynote speeches at prestigious events like the Inc. 500 conference, Microsoft Expo Spring Conference, and the Positive Business Conference at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business. Notably, in 2015, Ari and Paul Saginaw were invited to address a massive audience of 50,000 at the University of Michigan Spring Commencement, a testament to their impact and influence.
Zingerman’s commitment to community is deeply ingrained in their guiding principles. In 1988, Zingerman’s played a crucial role in establishing Food Gatherers, a food rescue program that now delivers over 5 million pounds of food annually to those in need in Washtenaw County. Living their values, Zingerman’s consistently donates 10% of its previous year’s profits to local community organizations and non-profits. Ari himself has contributed to the community by serving on the board of The Ark, a renowned folk music venue in America.
The consistent success and community focus of Zingerman’s and its founders have garnered widespread recognition. Ari and Paul received the Jewish Federation of Washtenaw County’s first Humanitarian Award in 1995. In 2006, Ari was inducted into the “Who’s Who of Food & Beverage in America” by the James Beard Foundation. Bon Appetit magazine honored Ari and Paul with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007 for their profound contributions to the food industry. Ari received another Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Cheese Society in 2014. Further solidifying his impact, Ari’s book, “Building a Great Business,” was recognized as one of Inc. magazine’s Best Books for Business Leaders.
Despite managing ten businesses with 21 partners, authoring books, and writing articles for the Zingerman’s newsletter, Ari remains an avid reader. His extensive book collection, particularly in anarchist literature, might soon rival the renowned Labadie collection at the University of Michigan library, adding another unique dimension to the story of the founder of Zingerman’s Delicatessen on Detroit Street in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
