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Our Story

OLD COLUMBUS FOODS LOGO

The History Of Columbus

The orgins of Columbus Foods Company can be traced back to the mid-1930's. An Italian immigrant named Michael Gagliardo opened a grocery store in the street level unit of his apartment building at Chicago and Howe Avenues in Chicago. The senior Gagliardo and his son, Michael V. Gagliardo, soon expanded operations by employing a can fabricating machine resurrected from a fire at the Continental Can Company. The father and son team rebuilt the machine, set it up in the basement, and formed the "Eagle Can Company", which rapidly became a formidable supplier of cans to local oil packaging companies.

When a shortage of cooking oil developed during World War II, the Gagliardos were able to secure a source, and the result was a flourshing oil packaging company which became known as "Columbus Packing Company". The Gagliardos selected the name "Columbus" because of the explorer's reputation for being the first to discover America. This pioneer's name symbolizes the leadership and spirit that has become synonymous with the Columbus Foods Company of today.

Since these modest yet auspicious beginnings, the company has moved several times, finally settling into its present location, a 310,000 sq. ft. facility in DesPlaines. Ownership and control has passed through three generations of Gagliardos, and is currently in the capable hands of the founder's granddaughter, Paulette Gagliardo.

Today, the company continues to wear the "Columbus" name well, and stands among the leaders in the shortening and oil industries. Sales have expanded to all 50 states as well as international locations, and the product line now includes approximately 100 quality items. Product options range from highly competitive commodity oils to the most exotic specialty oils, in packages ranging from bulk tankers to 24 oz. retail sizes.

Quality, competitive pricing, and breadth of our product line continue to be our greatest strengths. We have continued to build on these traditions, providing a comprehensive line of shortenings and oils to the retail and food service industry, and for a variety of chemical and manufacturing applications.

Why not put the Columbus Foods team to work for you?

 

Columbus Foods
Service, Quality, and Dependability You Can Count On.

tel: (800) 322-6457 or (773) 265-6500
fax: (773) 265-6985

  
 
Columbus Foods
To Order by Phone: Call Us Toll Free (800) 322-6457 or (773) 265-6500 30 E. Oakton Avenue DesPlaines, Illinois 60018

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