WRITTEN BY CAITLIN M. DEWICKI
Photo by [Peasant Life]
A Century of Flavor: The Germack Pistachio Co. Story
Rooted in Tradition
The story of Germack Pistachio Co. is as rich as the nuts they roast. Founded by Frank Germack Sr., an Armenian immigrant, the company began as part of the Armenian Import Company in New York City, where pistachios were first introduced to the American market. Frank and his brother John eventually moved to Detroit, establishing what is now one of the city’s most recognized and cherished brands.
“They imported about 60% of all the pistachios coming into the country,” recalls Frank Germack III, the current steward of the family legacy. What started with a single product—pistachios—soon expanded to include a variety of nuts, seeds, and eventually coffee. Through the Great Depression, Germack adapted by dyeing pistachios red and selling them in penny gumball vending machines, creating an iconic product that people still remember today.
Beyond Pistachios
While pistachios put Germack on the map, its product range has grown to offer something for every kind of snacker. Pumpkin seeds have become one of their top-selling products, and their premium mixed nuts stand out for their careful balance of flavors and quality. “We've worked on the balance between the proportions of each. Many people think of mixed nuts and they think peanuts. We don't have peanuts. We just have the premium nuts in there,” says Germack.
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In 2011, the company expanded into coffee roasting at their Eastern Market location, using the same roasting expertise that made their nuts so popular. With bestsellers like the I-75 and Eastern Market blends, Germack’s coffee has become as much of a staple as their snacks. Looking ahead, they’re experimenting with new flavors and salad toppers, staying ahead of shifting consumer preferences.
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“A big part of our business is Christmas. People will give these five-pound bags as gifts. That was always kind of a tradition. Instead of giving someone a present or a bottle of wine, you’d give them a big bag of nuts.”
A Detroit Legacy
Germack has always been a Detroit brand at heart. From its historic location in Eastern Market to its strong partnerships with local businesses, the company remains deeply embedded in the city’s food culture.
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“We started in Detroit, and we feel we want to remain in Detroit,” Germack affirms. Their collaboration with iconic Michigan brands like Hudsonville Ice Cream and Beyond Juicery + Eatery reflects their dedication to fostering local partnerships. By supplying nut butters, coffee, and other ingredients to fellow Michigan businesses, Germack strengthens the local food ecosystem.
However, their commitment doesn’t stop there. In celebration of its 100th anniversary, Germack launched a special initiative donating a portion of proceeds to Forgotten Harvest and Fraternite Notre-Dame in Detroit, addressing food security issues in the city.
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“It’s not just about availability of food, but availability of the right foods, and we feel nuts are part of that.”
Looking to the Future
As a company that has thrived for over a century, Germack knows the importance of adaptability. Whether it’s switching from dyes to natural beet powder for their red pistachios or exploring more sustainable packaging solutions, they remain committed to innovation.
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One of their latest focuses is direct trade sourcing for their coffee, cutting out middlemen to ensure fair prices for farmers while securing high-quality beans. They’re also expanding their distribution strategy, making their products more accessible through gourmet markets and online wholesale channels.
“We're always looking at new ways to get our product into people’s lives in a fun and meaningful way,” says Germack. Whether it’s through seasonal packaging for holiday gifting or developing new nut blends that mimic nostalgic flavors, the company continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
“One thing that we’ve always been proud of is our name. Germack is the same name that’s on the product and the factory. We stand behind what we do.”
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Find Germack at Woodward Corner Market
For fans of fresh, locally sourced products, Meijer’s Woodward Corner Market is the perfect place to discover Germack Pistachio Co. The market’s commitment to supporting Michigan brands aligns seamlessly with Germack’s mission.
Whether you're picking up a bag of their signature mixed nuts, trying their Detroit-roasted coffee, or indulging in a holiday-themed nut mix, you’re experiencing a product that carries a legacy of quality, family, and Detroit pride.
“We appreciate the partnership and we're thrilled to work with Meijer’s markets,” says Germack. “Meijer is dedicated to Michigan products and Michigan companies, and we’re proud to be part of that.”
Next time you visit Woodward Corner Market, take a moment to explore Germack’s offerings. With every bite, you’re tasting a piece of Detroit history—a tradition that has been roasting strong for over 100 years.
Photo by [Peasant Life]
You can find Germack Pistachio Co. nuts and snack mixes in aisle 3, nut butters in aisle 4, and coffee in aisle 2 at Woodward Corner Market!
Photo by [Peasant Life]