The deReuze story is actually one of the many chapters in the Peters family. As fine-food merchants, their history now spans four generations.deReuze Gourmet Market – Service, Selection & SurprisesIn the early 1930’s, on the canals of Schipol near Amsterdam, Jon Peters bought his first small shop from a failing tobacco merchant. He and his children carefully packaged bulk dry goods and soaps for the growing community of Schipol. They endured the war years and grew in product selection and service.
Neal Peters, Jon’s eldest son, was an enterprising young man. His job was to ride his bicycle around the countryside taking orders and delivering groceries. When a new resident moved in or if a house was built, Neal was knocking at their door to introduce himself and encourage purchasing from the family store.
Taking his enterprising spirit to America, Neal immigrated to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1954. While learning the English language and raising his family, Neal worked various jobs in the food industry. In 1976 he purchased his own shop and called the 800 square foot store Van’s Dutch Store. Importing foods from The Netherlands gave him a niche of providing for the needs of his loyal Dutch customers. Soon he included mail order shipping and selling wholesale to other Dutch shops throughout the United States.
By 1988, Van’s Dutch Store outgrew the space and a move was necessary. Neal’s sons, Ed and Ernie, joined him in the business and the name was changed to Peters Imports. Their product selection expanded with more imported and domestic gourmet delicacies including some of the world’s finest chocolates. The mail order business became stronger and in 1989 they moved to Grandville and added web ordering capabilities. Throughout each grown phase, the Peters’ family continued to put their customers first.
deReuze Gourmet Market was established in 2002 as a result of another crowded facility. Located in RiverTown Center across from Rivertown Crossings Mall, the product selection at deReuze comes from over 34 countries. It is a spot where “foodies” satisfy their desire for imported and gourmet foods, specialty beers and wines.
While shopping for specialty foods, beverages and unique gifts, we invite you to enjoy a delicious sandwich, home made soups, fresh baked desserts and a cup of coffee, chai or tea at our full-service deli.
History update web 1/9/08
Our History
