ST. CLOUD, Minn. – Coborn’s, Inc. has announced plan to celebrate the company’s 100th anniversary this year.

Since its humble beginnings in 1921, Coborn’s, Inc. has been a leader in the grocery industry, growing from a one-room produce market in Sauk Rapids, MN to expansion of a regional employee-owned grocery retailer employing 9,400 employees and 59 grocery stores. The company operates more than 120 various retail and business support units across Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota and South Dakota.

In 1921 Chester R. Coborn opened the Sauk Rapids, MN flagship store and during its first two decades, the grocer expanded in size and selection, changes that were driven by economic necessity and his commitment to innovation. The third-generation of family members, brothers Bob, Dan, Bill and Ron Coborn would begin the chain’s significant expansion during the 1970’s and 80’s, a time when changes in the grocery industry focused on services to provide convenient shopping to its customers. Considerable growth was seen during the 1990’s as the independent retailer remained committed to the pillars of fresh offerings, value and customer service. The turn of the century ushered in a new entrepreneurial spirit when fourth generation family member, Chris Coborn, became chairman, president and CEO. Chris has driven significant growth and change in the organization under his leadership over the past two decades. Two of Chris’s children, Emily and Peter, are now fifth-generation leaders in the organization as well.

As Coborn’s, Inc. celebrates 100 years, they live by their vision to “Be Remarkable!” The company remains committed to serving the communities where it operates and has donated millions of dollars, thousands of volunteer hours and numerous in-kind gifts to clubs and small non-profits that support youth and fighting hunger.

The grocer remains an industry leader through innovations in e-commerce shopping, a sophisticated customer loyalty program and ongoing investments in the company’s stores to modernize and meet today’s consumer demands.

“2020 was a challenging year for all of us as we dealt with the ongoing challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic presented. But since the company was founded back in 1921 by my great-grandfather, the company has stood the test of time through many difficulties,” fourth-generation Chairman, President and CEO Chris Coborn said. “Our guests, our business partners and our employees have made the difference. Through hard work, supporting one another, and giving back to our communities, we know we can manage through the tough times and celebrate the good ones, today and in the next 100 years.”