Frigo’s Foods is celebrating 75 years of providing specialty food and deli favorites to Western Massachusetts.
In 1950, Joe Frigo’s grandfather opened the Springfield location. At the time, his grandfather and great uncle owned an Italian market in Torrington, Connecticut. The family came over from Europe and first opened a cheese factory in Wisconsin but due to issues with a big family, his grandfather and brother left to start their own business. They chose William Street because the grandfather was certain it would be a “safe street” due to Mount Carmel Church.
The business is now owned by Frigo, third generation, and works with his son who is fourth generation. The East Longmeadow location was opened in 2004, 20 years ago.
The business used to be an “old Italian market” that primarily served Italian Americans in the South End area but has since expanded to sell sandwiches, soups, meats and cheeses, wines, prepared foods, gift baskets, salads. Many people will order online now as well.
The business is unique because it is family run and many people will come in for that reason. As Frigo has worked at the locations over his lifetime, he has seen families grow as they visit the shop, such as seeing parents with a baby then having the child grown up coming to the shop years later. People will also come specifically to shop during holiday visits from other places due to the business’ “extra care and personal touch” and homemade foods. As a smaller business, quality is a big focus.
When asked about whether the business was looking to expand in the future, Frigo said that he might consider physically expanding the size of the Springfield location but he doesn’t expect another location being added. The business is him and his son, along with a few employees. “We’re a big happy family,” Frigo said. He has worked there for 45 years.
The business will be celebrating its 75th anniversary with an open house on Saturday, Dec. 7 at the Springfield location. There will be free samples of meats, cheeses, wines and chocolate. The event is free and open to anyone. At the event, people can tour the kitchen and store and see the gift basket making station. No reservations are needed. For more information, visit frigofoods.com.
Frigo emphasized appreciation for the community’s support over the years. He said that they like what they produce as a family and hope to continue selling their products for 25-plus years to come.
