Looking Local: Max's Imports Expands But Keeps Its Heart in Sterling Heights

~ Sterling Heights, MI- Al Trajkoski was just a teenager when his father opened Little Party Shop in 1982. The small store, located near the intersection of 15 Mile and Ryan roads, quickly became a popular spot for party supplies. However, after nearly a decade of success, the shop faced a challenge when a nearby shopping center was built.

Undeterred by this setback, Trajkoski saw an opportunity to evolve the business and in 1991, he transformed the 960-square-foot store into Max's Imports. Today, Max's Imports is a beloved Midwest distributor known for its award-winning international product lines.

According to Trajkoski, most of their products are sourced from Eastern Europe. They import and distribute goods from countries such as Bulgaria, Romania, Greece, and Turkey. "If you want to do your shopping for European delicacies, this is where you come," he said.

Since taking over as owner and CEO of Max's Imports, Trajkoski has expanded the business into a destination market for European goods. With warehouses in Detroit and Chicago and distributors from New York to Florida, Max's Imports has become a go-to source for specialty products.

Trajkoski credits this growth to their decision to diversify beyond just liquor sales. "If we were still just a liquor store, we would be out of business," he said. "People come all the way from Livonia, Canton, even Cleveland to make a weekend trip. Sterling Heights is very centrally located."

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In 2015, Trajkoski took another step towards solidifying Max's Imports' presence in Sterling Heights by purchasing the shopping center where they are located. He recently refaced the building in 2021 as part of the city's beautification efforts.

For Trajkoski, this investment was more than just an expense. "I've been invested in Sterling Heights for 42 years," he said. "This place is still growing. I couldn't be more proud of how well the city is doing."

With a focus on security at their facilities, Max's Imports can now concentrate on refining their product line. They currently offer 18 different specialty brands, including Mama's Macedonian spreads and dips, Gradina's Bulgarian pickled vegetables and honey, and Domašen, home to the award-winning burek pie.

Trajkoski explains that all their products are inspired by traditional recipes from other countries, which they then tweak to add their own unique touch while still honoring the original tradition.

Looking towards the future, Trajkoski and his team have set their sights on expanding Max's brand nationwide. They attend expos and trade shows across the country in hopes of getting their products into stores nationwide. One of their most successful products is Mama's line of ajvar, a roasted red pepper and eggplant spread that can now be found in local grocery stores and even on Meijer shelves.

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For Trajkoski, seeing his products on store shelves is one of the most rewarding aspects of his job. "Going from a vision to an actual product and having other people love your work—that's special," he said with a smile.

Despite their growing reach, Trajkoski assures that Max's Imports will always call Sterling Heights home. While they would love to have satellite locations in other areas, they remain committed to their roots in Sterling Heights. "Some residents have been here for 20 years and still have never come into the store," he said. "As long as we've got future customers in the city, we're going to stay right here."

For those interested in experiencing Max's Imports for themselves, they can visit the market located at 4160 15 Mile Road near Ryan Road. The store is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays.

For more information on the diverse businesses that power Sterling Heights and resources for the growing business community, residents can sign up for the monthly Looking Local eNewsletter. With updates on local businesses and opportunities to support the community, it's a great way to stay connected with all that Sterling Heights has to offer.

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