The Third Generation of Hiller Men Joins the Company

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – “I always wanted to work in the family business,” says Justin Hiller, who grew up stalking the aisles of his family’s grocery stores and marveling at the warm reciprocal relationships between customers and his grandfather and father. “I loved the interaction with customers, how it was more like a family than a business”

After spending the past three years at the West Coast version of Hiller’s, Gelson’s Supermarkets, Hiller has returned to his home state as Vice-President of Hiller’s Markets, working in concert with his father.

“When you’re building a family-owned company, the ultimate dream is that one of your children will follow in your footsteps,” says Jim Hiller, CEO and owner of Hiller’s Markets, Southeast Michigan’s oldest local grocery chain. “My father was delighted when I transitioned from practicing law to taking over the family company. And now, I am equally thrilled that my eldest son is choosing to continue our legacy.”

Justin Hiller spent three years in Management of the Gelson’s stores, first as a store level manager and later as head grocery buyer for that store and its warehouse. His experience has prepared him well to return to his family’s unique company.

“They’re very similar to Hiller’s – beautiful, well-run stores with a primary focus on customer service and quality of product,” says the younger Hiller. Gelson’s operates 18 stores in southern California. “I chose Gelson’s because I knew they were an industry leader, like Hiller’s. They’re profitable and well-run. I learned a lot and can’t wait to pair my experience with my father’s knowledge and talent. I have no doubt we will make a great team.”

Justin Hiller began work at Hiller’s June 22. “I certainly hope to continue the traditions that have built our successes,” he says. “I’m proud to be a part of what Hiller’s offers.”

“It’s every father’s dream, to work with his son,” says Jim Hiller. “We complement each other in personality, in style, in vision. Justin brings unique insights from his experience at Gelson’s and also from a different generation. Together, we will ensure the Hiller’s tradition of appealing to a variety of shoppers.”

Founded in 1941, Hiller’s Markets operates seven stores in Southeast Michigan. Dedicated to promoting local companies and cottage industries, Hiller’s highlights Michigan products with special shelf tags. Jim Hiller’s Buy Michigan Initiative launched last year and spearheaded a statewide effort to showcase and patronize local businesses and support our communities through the current recession.
Hiller’s stores are located in Ann Arbor, Berkley, West Bloomfield, Northville, Plymouth, Commerce Township and Union Lake.

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