Sabes, Honoring Family, Building Community
The Sabes Family Foundation was created by Moe and Esther Sabes and has continued with their descendants, whose values and commitments are rooted in supporting others in building productive lives with compassion, innovation, and inclusivity.
Moe and Esther Sabes
The foundation was built from the hard work and success of the Sabes family over decades. In 1932, Moe Sabes, his brother and partners started as a fresh produce distribution company called American Fruit and Produce Company. The Minneapolis, MN based company was founded during the Great Depression in 1932, initially serving retail clients in the city.
Sabes saw the potential in expanding beyond traditional distribution models. By the late 1930s, under Sabes’ guidance, American Fruit became the first full-line frozen food distributor in the region, pioneering the integration of frozen and refrigerated products into wholesale markets.
Recognizing the rapid changes in consumer demand, Sabes made bold moves in the 1950s and 1960s, shifting the company’s focus to institutional foodservice distribution. Sabes’ approach was marked by innovation, including the construction of a state-of-the-art high-rise, semi-automated warehouse in 1971. This $10 million investment revolutionized operations, enabling the company to handle a broader product range while maintaining efficiency and reducing labor costs. Despite early challenges, including technical setbacks, the warehouse became a hallmark of modern distribution.
Sabes’ leadership extended beyond infrastructure. He implemented a unique pricing philosophy that emphasized low markups and high turnover, breaking away from industry norms. By focusing on national brands instead of private labels, he established trust and loyalty among customers. Sabes also prioritized customer-centric innovations, such as tailored promotional campaigns and efficient delivery systems. His embrace of technology further positioned American Fruit as a leader, with advanced computing systems streamlining inventory management and sales tracking, enabling the company to scale its operations effectively.
Under Moe Sabes, American Fruit & Produce Co. became synonymous with innovation and resilience. His nearly 45 years of leadership were defined by his ability to anticipate market shifts and take calculated risks. Sabes’ informal yet focused management style fostered a culture of excellence, empowering his team to embrace change and drive growth. Today, his legacy endures as a testament to the power of vision, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to customer success, cementing American Fruit’s place as an industry maverick.
In 1988 American Fruit was sold to Kraft Foods, Inc.
Robert and Janet Sabes
Today the foundation is led by Robert W. Sabes, an American entrepreneur and philanthropist with a diverse career in the hospitality industries. After leaving American Fruit, Robert founded Hospitality Plus, Inc., and made a significant mark in the restaurant industry through his entrepreneurial vision and commitment to growth. Originally based in Minneapolis, Hospitality Plus operated numerous dining establishments across markets in Minnesota, each tailored to the unique characteristics of its community. Today, Sabes operates through RW Sabes Enterprises out of Las Vegas. Sabes’s journey is a testament to the power of strong leadership, adaptability, and a people-first approach to business.
Sabes’ career in hospitality began with a single Ground Round franchise in Rochester, Minnesota, in the late 1970s. His first major venture into independent operations came with the opening of the Freight House, where he converted a historical railroad building into a seasonal mainstay in the charming town of Stillwater, Minnesota. While the challenges of entering a seasonal market were formidable, this pivotal expansion marked the beginning of a larger vision.
Over the years, Sabes built a diverse portfolio of restaurants and businesses, ranging from casual 24-hour delis, 200-seat establishments in historic locations, and fast-casual wurst and bier houses, to immersive entertainment experiences at Dream Box 360, Minus -5 C° and the Truck Park. Each new project was approached with thoughtful planning and a deep understanding of the market.
Rob Sabes Goal
Sabes made it clear that his goal was never to create a cookie-cutter chain destined for corporate acquisition but rather to establish distinctive dining experiences that cater to local tastes and preferences. Central to Sabes’ success is his belief that the most critical asset in his organization is the general manager of each restaurant. He emphasizes that these individuals shape the profitability, creativity, and customer satisfaction at every location. This philosophy has guided Sabes in cultivating a strong managerial team, fostering growth from within, and promoting talent at every level of the organization.
Sabes also understands the importance of systems and organization in sustaining growth. He advocates for developing operational systems that allow for consistency across locations while empowering managers to make decisions suited to their specific contexts. This balance of structure and flexibility has been a key driver of his company’s success.
Sabes’ approach to hospitality is rooted in adaptability and innovation. Recognizing that the restaurant industry is constantly evolving, he has ensured that his establishments stay ahead of trends. Whether it’s the sports-themed Jersey Sports Bar or the mid-priced dining at Filberts, each concept is designed to resonate with its target audience. Sabes’ ability to take calculated risks and stretch his own capabilities has been integral to his success. From creating menus and ambiance to navigating the challenges of new markets, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of what his restaurants can achieve.
Robert Sabes’ career serves as an inspiring example of what can be accomplished through visionary leadership, dedication to quality, and a deep respect for people. By prioritizing the development of his team and tailoring his restaurants to their communities, Sabes has created a thriving enterprise that continues to grow and adapt in an ever-changing industry. Through Hospitality Plus, and now RW Sabes Enterprises, he has not only built successful restaurants but also a legacy of innovation and leadership in the hospitality world.
Jon and Kristine Sabes
A third generation of trailblazing entrepreneurial innovation and leadership continues with Jon Sabes, who is forging his own path in business and philanthropy. In business Jon Sabes is an accomplished entrepreneur and thought leader in finance, business development, and law by dedicating his 20-year career to innovating in the $3.8T life insurance industry. As an entrepreneur, he has led two publicly listed companies that have pushed boundaries in financial services and life insurance underwriting technologies. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics/Accounting from the University of Colorado and a Juris Doctor cum laude from the University of Minnesota Law School.
Most recently, he founded Longevity Financial Partners, aiming to help individuals align financial security with holistic well-being. His book, “Healthy Wealthy Longevity,” reflects his commitment to guiding others toward a prosperous and purposeful life.
LongevityFP reflects his lifelong passion for health, longevity, and insurance industry disruption by modernizing how annuity and life insurance products are positioned and sold. Jon’s vision is to create a company where consumers live happier, healthier, more prosperous lives along with the agents and carriers who serve them.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Jon is an avid endurance athlete, having completed multiple Ironman competitions and marathons. He is also dedicated to personal growth and optimizing various aspects of life, including health, relationships, and continuous learning. In philanthropy, Jon has focused on helping challenged youth find pathways to health and properity. In his book, Healthy Wealthy Longevity and its companion The Pursuit of Happiness Daily Prompt Journal, Jon provides a blueprint for anyone seeking to chart a life full of health and prosperity.
Steve Sabes and Maggie O’Gara
Steve Sabes, Ph.D., is a prominent expert in biotechnology and finance. He holds a Bachelor of Arts from Colorado College and a Doctorate in Organic Chemistry from the University of Minnesota. Dr. Sabes has contributed to the creation of cutting-edge life insurance products that integrate epigenetic science to evaluate longevity and health risks.
Currently, Steve focuses on real estate investment, applying his extensive background in biotechnology and finance to guide his work in this evolving field.
Building a Better Future
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