Happy Harry's Bottle Shops
Happy Harry's Bottle Shops has been a beloved fixture in the North Dakota community for over 75 years. The company's roots can be traced back to 1944, when "Happy" Harry Gershman first opened the Central Package Store in downtown Grand Forks. Since then, Happy Harry's has become an integral part of the state's landscape and lifestyle.
In 1976, Hal Gershman, the son of "Happy" Harry, took over the family business and continued to build upon his father's vision. Under his leadership, Happy Harry's expanded to five conveniently located stores, with two in Grand Forks and three in Fargo. This expansion allowed even more customers to experience the exceptional service and wide selection of products that Happy Harry's is known for.
In 2015, a significant milestone was reached when Happy Harry's became a 100% employee-owned business. The establishment of Happy Harry’s Employee Stock Ownership Plan was made possible through the generosity of the Gershman Family - Hal, Kathy, and their daughter Leonora. This transition to employee ownership further solidified Happy Harry's commitment to its employees and ensured that they had a stake in the company's success.
Today, Happy Harry’s Bottle Shops continues to thrive as a testament to its enduring legacy. The company remains dedicated to providing top-notch customer service and offering an extensive range of products that cater to every individual’s needs. With a focus on quality and community engagement, Happy Harry’s has cemented its position as a trusted provider of beverages in North Dakota.
As it looks towards the future, Happy Harry’s Bottle Shops remains committed to upholding its founding principles while adapting to meet the evolving needs of its customers. With strong leadership and a loyal team of employee-owners at its helm, there is no doubt that Happy Harry’s will continue to be an essential part of North Dakota for many years to come.
