Trader Joe's Timeline

A chronological order of major events reconstructed from records, not newspaper headlines

1958

Founding of Pronto MarketsActual founding year

A convenience store established by Rexall's Owl Drug. Joe Coulombe took over management at age 26. Started with a 2,500sqft store in Pacific Palisades, LA.

1965

Sensing a crisis for 7-Eleven

Decided to pivot after hearing news that supplier Adohr Milk Farms was being sold to 7-Eleven.

1967

Trader Joe's Store No. 1, Pasadena

Rebranded with a name parodying the tiki-themed restaurant 'Trader Vic's'.

1979

Sold to Aldi Nord

Acquired by Theo Albrecht. Coulombe remained CEO until 1988.

2023

Frozen Kimbap Craze

Supplied by a manufacturer in Gumi, Gyeongbuk. Sold out in all stores due to TikTok viral trend.

2024~2026

Mini Tote Bag Resale Incident

The $2.99 bag was traded for up to $49,000 on eBay.