How a Humble Market Became One of Philly’s Most Beloved Institutions
Reading Terminal Market is a National Historic Landmark, with more than 80 local small businesses, including 20 multigenerational ones. We spoke with Annie Allman, CEO/GM, about this Philadelphia institution.
What is Reading Terminal Market and how did it get started?
Reading Terminal Market is one of America’s oldest and largest public markets. The roots date back to pre-Revolutionary times when farmers sold their goods on Market Street. In the late 1800s, City Fathers were concerned about sanitation and food safety, and pushed to consolidate the operations. Reading Railroad Company built their Head House and Train Shed, and the Reading Terminal Market opened in the train shed in 1892. The market quickly became the main food supply of Philadelphia. The Market ebbed and flowed over the years but was at risk of demolition as the last train left the Reading Terminal in 1984. Philadelphians rose up to support their Market, and as a result, Reading Terminal Market was preserved and a nonprofit corporation created to preserve its legacy and public purpose. During the COVID pandemic, the Market stayed open as an essential grocery source for Philadelphia. Now as we approach our 133rd year, we remain the heart of Philadelphia, connecting across generations, demographics and a shared love for authentic experiences.
How has the city supported your business?
Philadelphians are the backbone of this public market. We have an engaged and fiercely loyal customer base.
How do you support the greater Philadelphia community?
Reading Terminal Market is a primary source of fresh food. We are also believed to be the largest redemption site in the Commonwealth for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). Our location is easily accessible by all means of public transportation. One less tangible but perhaps more important way—we are a diverse public space where real people from all walks of life cross paths and have conversations and build connections they would not anywhere else. To sum it up, We Feed Philadelphia’s Heart & Soul!
Why do you think Philadelphia has been the ideal location for your business?
I have experienced public markets in many settings, and while there are many similarities, we are just different. I like to say, “Reading Terminal Market is where tourists go to see Philadelphians in their native habitat.”
What goals have you set moving forward?
To maintain the traditions of the past while positioning Reading Terminal Market for a vibrant future. We have three pillars of our recent strategic plan: Philly Love & Loyalty—grow our actively engaged and fiercely loyal local customer base dedicated to shopping regularly. Increasing “Market Share”—grow our community partnerships to extend the Market’s influence beyond our four walls. Strong from the Inside Out —a well preserved and maintained Market space and thriving Market community united and invested in its mission, common purpose and values. The past 132 years have been amazing, but I want the next century to be even better!
