Max, Meet Chicago
With a sense of adventure and vision in mind, Max H. Ries left his hometown of Munich, Germany for the bright lights of Chicago.
Max, a former textile worker in Munich, had every intention of opening his own textile firm in Chicago. However, when he arrived in his new city his passion for global food and flavors got the best of him.
Worldly Dishes
Max, wanderlust at heart decided to bring life to his passion for curious places. He knew the best way to teach people about cultures of the world was to bring exotic delicacies from their native countries to the homes and kitchens of American people.
Swiss in Wisconsin
His first global adventure brought imported cheese from Switzerland, which he distributed from the back of his station wagon in Wisconsin.
Unheard of Delicacies
Max began importing delicacies such as Pate de Fois Gras, Kangaroo Steak, Japanese Fried Butterflies, Chocolate Covered South American Ants, Canned Hornets and Fried Baby Bees.
Farming His Own
Max loved his imported delicacies but he knew there had to be more. He pushed the envelope once again and started farming and packing never before seen products like baby corn, mini watermelon and martini peppers, right on his farm!
Expanding Reese
By the 1950s Reese had seen so much success that Max expanded his small shop from Randolph St. in Chicago to Los Angeles and Paris.
Making TV History
Reese Finer Foods president, Morri Kushner appeared on the Groucho Marx show to talk about delicacies like Roasted Caterpillars and Chocolate Covered Ants.
Going Global
Reese Finer Foods is sold to PET, INC of St. Louis. They started concentration on more approachable global products. Reese was the first specialty brand to leave specialty shops and move exclusively into supermarkets.
Moving Up
Reese Finer Foods becomes part of a group of specialty food brands.
A Worldly Name
Reese Finer Foods changes their name to World Finer Foods. The Reese brand remains the best known brand in specialty foods in the U.S., with over 70 years of heritage.
Getting Social
Reese updates their look and style with new product packaging and a new website. The company also creates a presence on social media for the first time.