Pappas Industries Inc. is a proud, family-owned business whose roots stretch deep into New England’s commercial and civic history. The Pappas family began their American journey in the early 1910s, arriving from Greece and settling in Somerville, Massachusetts, where they operated neighborhood food stores.

Over time, their entrepreneurial spirit expanded beyond retail. In 1936, brothers John C. and Thomas Pappas assumed control of the family’s food chain and soon diversified into importing, liquor distribution, and large-scale infrastructure investments. John Pappas, in particular, became a leading figure in Massachusetts business and politics: he served on the executive committee of the Massachusetts Democratic Party, was appointed Assistant Secretary to Governor Joseph Ely, and later served as Special Justice of the Gloucester District Court.

In 1946, under John’s leadership, a consortium led by the Pappas family acquired controlling interest in Suffolk Downs, where he served as chairman and then president until 1964. Meanwhile, the family invested heavily in real estate, developing properties across Boston, South Boston, Kenmore Square, and beyond—ultimately building office towers such as White Plains Plaza in New York.

Today, the Pappas family has focused its efforts entirely on the public contracting and construction industry. Based in Massachusetts and serving all of New England, Pappas Industries brings generations of vision, integrity, and legacy to every project we undertake.