Doud's Market Celebrates 140 Years: Mackinac Island Grocery Store

A brand celebrating 140 years of exceptional service

Story of resilience and dedication

Mackinac Island, MI – Known for its scenic beauty and historic charm, Michigan’s Mackinac Island is also home to the oldest family-owned grocery store in the U.S. – Doud’s Market. This long-standing island store is marking its 140th anniversary, serving both the local community and the millions of tourists who visit the island annually.

The establishment’s history traces back to 1884, when two brothers, James and Patrick Doud, laid the cornerstone of Doud Bros. Before relocating to its present-day location due to a devastating fire in 1938, the market was situated by the waterfront, on the site now occupied by the Mackinac Island Ferry Company dock.

The store underwent a significant transformation during the 2006-2007 winter season, where the vibrant corner spot near Marquette Park was given its current name, Doud’s Market. Since 2008, the business has been under the competent stewardship of Andrew Doud, a fourth-generation member of the family, who took the reins from his father, Stephen Doud.

The face of the island’s commerce

As the only grocery store on Mackinac Island, which attracts over a million visitors each summer season, Doud’s Market has to cater to a diverse crowd. This includes the local residents, seasonal workers, families returning to their summer homes, and day trippers. The market prides itself on its agility, offering both essential household items and luxurious holiday treats, thereby serving as both a local grocery store and tourist shopping point.

The diverse split of customers does present its challenges, Andrew concedes. “From the cottagers to the workers. For example, we try to stock higher-end meats, but we also sell a lot of ramen noodles.” Indeed, the vast range of products available is immediately noticeable upon entering the 4,500-square-foot store.

A commitment to service and flexibility

The store’s inventory features everyday essentials as well as imported goods that cater to the worldly island workforce. With vehicles largely banned on the island, the delivery of ordered goods requires a two-step process that first involves sea transport, followed by a horse-drawn flatbed wagon. In winter, goods may have to be flown in from the mainland if frozen waters prevent ferry travel.

Besides running Doud’s Market, the Doud family also manages several other ventures on the island. These include guest accommodations in the Mackinac House, the Little Luxuries gift shop on Main Street, and Patrick Doud’s Irish Pub, which opened last year.