Coborn’s

Coborn's, Inc., based in St. Cloud, Minnesota, is a notable player in the grocery retail and wholesale sector. Established in 1921 by Chester Coborn, the company began as a modest produce market in Sauk Rapids. Over the years, it has grown into a significant regional force in the Upper Midwest. As of November 2025, Coborn's operates 77 grocery stores under various banners, including Coborn’s, Cash Wise Foods, Marketplace Foods, and Hornbacher’s, across Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Michigan. Beyond grocery stores, Coborn's portfolio includes liquor stores, pharmacies, convenience stores, and a distribution center, showcasing its diversified approach to retail.

A pivotal moment in Coborn's expansion was the acquisition of Hornbacher’s in 2018, which marked its entry into North Dakota. More recently, in 2023, the company acquired Kessler’s Food in South Dakota, further solidifying its presence in the region. Coborn's has embraced technology and customer-centric innovations, launching an online shopping platform powered by Instacart and integrating digital loyalty programs to enhance customer convenience and engagement.

The company remains entirely employee-owned through its Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), promoting a culture of accountability and long-term stewardship. With around 9,200 employees as of 2024, Coborn's stands as one of the largest private employers in Central Minnesota, with annual revenues exceeding $1.6 billion.

Coborn's real estate strategy is focused on both organic growth and strategic acquisitions, particularly in mid-sized communities and regional hubs. Notable recent investments include the redevelopment of its Otsego, Minnesota campus, which now features expanded grocery and liquor stores alongside other retail offerings. The company is actively pursuing new locations in the Upper Midwest, targeting areas with strong community connections and growth potential.

For commercial real estate professionals, Coborn's offers a stable and well-capitalized presence as an anchor tenant. Its proven track record in multi-format operations, regional scale, and commitment to innovation make it a valuable partner for landlords and developers looking to enhance traffic and long-term value in their properties.