Best Market

Best Market was a family-owned, regional supermarket chain primarily located in the Northeastern United States. Founded by the Raitses family in 1994, Best Market focused on fresh produce, meat, seafood, dairy products, baked goods, and specialty and international foods. The chain was notable for its commitment to providing high-quality, fresh food at affordable prices, catering to the diverse culinary preferences of the regions it served.

History

Best Market started as a small store in Long Island, New York, by the Raitses family. The family's dedication to quality, value, and customer service helped the business to expand rapidly. Over the years, Best Market grew to include several dozen stores across New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey. The chain's growth was characterized by its strategic location choices, often selecting areas with diverse communities to cater to a wide range of culinary tastes and preferences.

Philosophy and Offerings

The core philosophy of Best Market was to provide the best possible quality at the lowest possible price. This was achieved through direct sourcing from farms and producers, efficient logistics, and a keen focus on customer satisfaction. The stores offered a wide variety of products, including:

• Fresh produce, with an emphasis on local and seasonal items
• A full-service meat department featuring certified butchers
• Seafood sourced daily for freshness
• An extensive bakery with a variety of bread, pastries, and cakes made from scratch
• A wide selection of dairy and frozen foods
• Specialty and international foods aisle, offering products from around the world

Community Involvement

Best Market was deeply involved in the communities it served, participating in local events, supporting local farms and businesses, and contributing to food banks and charitable organizations. The chain's commitment to community was part of its broader mission to not just be a retailer, but a positive force in the neighborhoods it operated in.

Acquisition

In November 2018, it was announced that Best Market would be acquired by the German global discount supermarket chain Lidl. The acquisition was part of Lidl's expansion strategy in the United States. Lidl planned to convert the Best Market stores into Lidl stores, with the transition focusing on enhancing the product range, particularly in fresh food and organic products, while continuing to offer low prices.

Legacy

Best Market left a lasting legacy in the regions it served. The chain was beloved for its focus on quality, affordability, and community engagement. Even as the stores transitioned to Lidl, the values and practices established by Best Market continued to influence the supermarket landscape in the Northeastern United States.