Hidden Gems: Meet Raymond Campise of Sparrow Market

Today we’d like to introduce you to Raymond Campise.

Raymond, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
In the heart of the community stands a name synonymous with quality, dedication, and tradition:
Sparrow Market. Since opening its doors on January 2, 1984, it has been more than just a butcher shop—it’s been a cornerstone of the neighborhood. Founded by Bob Sparrow and his wife Lisa, the market began as a labor of love. Bob worked tirelessly, day in and day out, with a singular goal: to offer the finest cuts of beef, pork, chicken, and lamb, and to build something that truly mattered.

Fast forward to 2016, when I first stepped into Sparrow Market—not as a customer, but as a hopeful job seeker in a full suit, resume in hand. I handed it to the meat manager, who, as I would later discover, tossed it in the trash. But I wasn’t going to give up that easily. Two days later, I returned to follow up with Bob himself. We had a brief conversation, and just like that—he hired me on the spot. I started the following week, training under the guidance of his son, Jordan Sparrow.

Working alongside Bob, Jordan, and seasoned managers Just and Casey, I dove headfirst into learning the trade. They taught me everything—every cut, every customer interaction, every value that defined Sparrow Market. I absorbed it all. In 2017, Bob’s brother, Tom Sparrow, a seasoned butcher himself, joined the team. From the start, Tom and I hit it off, and over time, I found myself feeling like part of the Sparrow family.

When 2020 arrived, big changes came with it. Bob decided it was time to retire, and Jordan stepped up, purchasing the business from his father. With Jordan at the helm, and a team that included Tom, myself, and my fiancée and fellow butcher, Cristina Pappas, we poured everything we had into the market. Our shared passion and relentless dedication brought new energy to the business—and new opportunities for growth.

In 2024, we took a bold step forward, launching our online butcher shop, expanding our reach beyond the storefront and embracing the future of food retail. But the biggest surprise came later that same year, when Jordan approached me with a question that would change everything:

“Have you ever thought about buying this place?”

Without hesitation, I said yes. Truthfully, I’d thought about it many times. Over the next year, we worked together to make that dream a reality. Now, on May 1st, 2025, I’ll officially become the new owner of Sparrow Market.

From an overlooked resume to the helm of a legacy business, this journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. And yet, it feels like it’s just the beginning. The values Bob built Sparrow Market on—hard work, quality, and community—will always guide us. And with the same grit and heart that built it from the ground up, we’re ready to take Sparrow Market into its next chapter.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Its been a Smooth Road the team works well together, Bob, Tom and Jordan Sparrow are Family to as I am to them as well as my Finacé Cristina Pappas. We have our tiffs with each other as one does with co-workers but it’s great and we are all family. Launching the Online Mail order butcher was stressful but Jordan interested us and me and Tom figured it out. Launched 2024 One to two day shipping of the best beef in the world to all 50 states…sparrowmeats.com

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
For four decades, Sparrow Market has stood as a pillar of the Ann Arbor community, earning a reputation for excellence that spans generations. We pride ourselves on offering the freshest and highest quality meats, cheeses, produce, and dry goods, ensuring that every visit is a feast for the senses. From farm-fresh vegetables to artisanal cheeses and succulent cuts of meat, our selection is curated with care to delight even the most discerning palates. As a longstanding member of the community, we’re committed to providing exceptional service and fostering connections that last a lifetime. At Sparrow Market, we’re not just a store – we’re a cherished tradition, and we invite you to experience the difference for yourself. Behind every cut is a team of passionate and skilled butchers, each with years of experience and an unwavering commitment to their craft. Whether you’re seeking a classic cut, a customized order, or expert advice on selecting the perfect beef, our team is here to provide personalized and informative service. At Sparrow Market, we pride ourselves on offering more than just exceptional meats. Our shelves boast a diverse array of extraordinary products sourced both domestically and internationally, curated meticulously to ensure a selection you won’t find elsewhere. Freshness is paramount, which is why our produce is delivered six days a week, featuring a bounty of local Michigan seasonal delights alongside everyday essentials. But Sparrow Market is more than just a grocery store; it’s a culinary haven. We ar truly where Quality meets Community, and thats our mission Statement. A place fore everyone no matter the budget large or small. Reaching new heights to new communities all over the country with our online store! Two day shipping!

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
We all put a lot of time and energy into this business and We believe it shows. It’s a representation of us. We truly care about what we are doing and how we are doing it. We believe that makes the difference, places like here just don’t exist anymore. It’s truly a special place and we try to make it more special everyday. From 5am when we get here till 7-pm everyday.

Pricing:

• Don’t judge a book by its cover
• Our pricing competes with anyone else.
• We have something for everyones budget!
• Quality is unmatched for the price

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sparrowmeats.com
• Instagram: sparrow market
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sparrowmarket/