About

Building Stronger Communities Through Employee Ownership Since 1995

Since opening our first Food 4 Less store in Stockton, California, PAQ, Inc. has grown into a leading employee-owned grocery company serving the local community. Guided by a commitment to exceptional value, quality products, and outstanding customer service, our family of brands continues to expand while remaining deeply connected to the neighborhoods we proudly serve.

Where it Started

PAQ, Inc.'s journey is built on steady growth, strategic expansion, and a commitment to serving the local community. From opening new store locations and becoming a 100% employee-owned company, every milestone reflects our dedication to investing in our employee-owners, customers, and communities. Explore our timeline below to see how PAQ, Inc. has grown while staying true to the values that have guided us since 1995.

Founded

1995

PAQ, Inc. is founded with a vision of providing quality groceries, exceptional value, and a workplace built on employee ownership.

1998

Food 4 Less opens its 3rd Stockton location (Weston Ranch)

1999

PAQ, Inc. opens the Hammer Lane Food 4 Less location in North Stockton bringing the total Food 4 Less stores in Stockton to four (4)

2000

Food 4 Less opens in Manteca, California

2002

Food 4 Less opens in Los Banos, California

2003

Food 4 Less opens in Salinas, California

2004

PAQ, Inc. introduces and opens their newest concept, Rancho San Miguel Market, to the Stockton area. Our Lodi location opens a few months later.

2005

Food 4 Less opens in Ceres, California

2006

PAQ, Inc. acquires the Souza Group Food 4 Less stores in Paso Robles, Atascadero, Arroyo Grande and San Luis Obispo, becoming the leading grocery store in the Independent Warehouse Grocers Association of Northern California (IWGANC) with a total of 14 stores months later.