The Petrini's market chain was established in San Francisco and run as a family owned business until 1989, when it was sold to a large corporation, Provigo. The markets were widely known for having the finest meat in the San Francisco area, and the marketing strategies employed at the stores are still an inspiration for grocers nationwide. At the beginning of the 20th century grocery stores were sometimes much like department stores with different partners owning and operating their own departments. The founder started out operating the meat section of Lick Market on 7th and Clement in 1935 under such a scheme. He opened three other markets within a few years of that time. The largest Petrini's grocery store was opened in 1956 on what is still known today as Petrini Plaza, near Fulton and