The History of Look’s Marketplace
It all begins with an idea.
An Institution in Sioux Falls since 1883, Look’s Market has a long history as a family owned and run business. However, as the ownership has changed hands throughout the years, a consistent and ever- present theme has permeated the business since its inception. That is the passion for quality of product and excellence of guest care.
Carl Look, the youngest of 13 brothers completed a 3 year butchering apprenticeship in Germany before immigrating to the United States.
Carl moved to Sioux Falls in 1883 and started a butcher shop with his brother August located on 7th and Main in downtown Sioux Falls.
In 1891, Carl struck out on his own and started his own butcher shop on the corner of 8th and Main, currently the location of the Sioux Falls Public library.
While at his location on 8th street, Look garnered a reputation for his exceptional quality and service, always knowing and greeting his regular shoppers by name. (Sounds familiar!)
Roy Look, Carl’s son, apprenticed with his father after school until eventually becoming and integral aspect of the daily operations of the market.
Carl bequeathed the business to his children before his death in 1941.
Bud Doer, a long-time employee and customer favorite purchased the business from the Look family in 1965. He ran it for decades before selling the business and retiring to Arizona. He is memorialized on our gift cards.
In 2007, after transferring ownership several times, Greg Heineman purchased the business shortly after it moved to the south side of town to 69th and Western in the Heather Ridge Village.
Staying true to the original unstated but obvious mission of the Look family, Look’s Marketplace continues to strive to present exemplary quality product matched with neighborly guest care.
