1978
Horst & Erika Nitzsche immigrated from Germany to Michigan chasing the American Dream.
Our History
1979
Erika’s Delicatessen off of 28th Street and Patterson in Grand Rapids, Michigan offered a taste of European delights to local Germans craving a taste of the homeland.
1980
The demand for these specialty food items grew with popularity, and the idea for Gourmet International was born.
1989
After Gourmet International outgrew the back office at Erika’s Delicatessen it was relocated.
1990
Founder Horst Nitzsche’s office at the new location, 6605 Broadmoor Avenue in Caledonia, Michigan.
1994
In addition to relocating the warehouse, we also expanded our presence in several food and confection associations. Member [Specialty Food Association] [National Confectioners Association].
2007
As expected, the demands and popularity of European foods kept growing as did Gourmet International with three expansions completed within the following 20 years. The last expansion was finished in 2007
2013
In 2013, Gourmet International moved to a newly constructed building at 5253 Patterson Ave SE in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The new location was designed to accommodate the company's growth and provide an efficient and harmonious workspace.
2023
With over 125,000 square feet of warehouse space, we have ample space for us to seamlessly import and distribute our increasing list of beloved brands within our community.
2024
As a family owned and operated business we celebrated our 35th anniversary in 2024.
Gourmet Excellence
Unmatched Quality — Direct to Your Store
We are Gourmet International. Born in 1989 with a big American dream and passion for food, we are extremely proud to look back and see how much our family company has grown over the years. With lots of hard work, dedication, and a rooted passion for success, Gourmet International has grown to where it is today; proudly importing specialty food and beverage items (with over 35 brand exclusivities) and distributing them nationwide to retailers, e-commerce business, and more. Each brand has been carefully selected to our product line to ensure nothing but the highest quality and satisfaction reaches your doors.