Curbside / Pickup / Delivery You're Shopping: Shipping Inventory My Account (0) WINE SPIRITS BEER & SELTZERS FINER FOODS MORE SEARCH THE SPEC’S STORY 1962 THE FIRST SPEC’S OPENS IN HOUSTON The original Spec’s opened in 1962 in Houston. Carroll B. “Spec” Jackson and Carolynn Jackson founded the store. “Spec” Jackson wanted to work for himself and make enough money so Carolynn wouldn’t have to work. The store’s name, Spec’s, originated from his nickname that referred to his spectacles. “Spec” Jackson spent $7,000 to open his first store. 1963 SPEC’S CELEBRATES ITS FIRST YEAR OF BUSINESS! 1971 LINDY AND JOHN RYDMAN JOIN THE FAMILY BUSINESS In 1971, the Jackson’s daughter, Lindy, and her husband, John Rydman, joined the business after graduating from college. Lindy and John learned the business from the ground up. Together the Jacksons and Rydmans put Spec’s in the world’s spotlight. With the introduction of wines in 1974, John Rydman created even more excitement about Spec’s with the breadth of wine selection and pricing offered in Houston. 1973 “SPEC” JACKSON SERVES AMAZED CUSTOMERS ON ROLLER SKATES! To save time serving his customers, “Spec” Jackson uses roller skates to zip around his new 15,000 square-foot store. People flock to the store just to see “the man on skates.” 1988 SPEC’S INTRODUCES PO’ BOY SANDWICHES AND GOURMET FOODS Spec’s entered the food business in the late ’80s with po’ boy sandwiches, crackers, and cheese to satisfy customers’ requests. It was only the beginning of what was to become a huge selection of gourmet items from all over the world. 1995 LISA RYDMAN JOINS THE FAMILY BUSINESS In 1995, third generation family, Lisa Rydman, joins the Spec’s team. She is a primary component in operations and proud to be part of a historic family business. 2002 SPEC’S EXPANDS THROUGHOUT HOUSTON Spec’s phenomenal growth now includes 24 stores and 475 employees all over the Greater Houston area. 2005 LINDY AND JOHN RYDMAN WIN ERNST & YOUNG’S “ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR” AWARD Spec’s phenomenal growth now includes 24 stores and 475 employees all over the Greater Houston area. 2007 SPEC’S ARRIVES IN AUSTIN AND BEYOND! What a capital idea for expansion! Spec’s opens three stores in the Austin area. Spec’s then expands to San Antonio, Killeen, El Paso, Dallas, Fort Worth, Lubbock and all across Texas within the next few years! 2016 VINTAGE VIRTUOSO 20TH ANNIVERSARY Spec’s Charitable Foundation hosted their 20th Annual Vintage Virtuoso event that has raised more than $3.5 million dollars in support of the Houston Symphony’s education and community programs. 2017 SPEC’S CELEBRATES 55TH ANNIVERSARY For 55 years, Spec’s has been your Texas go-to for good times and gourmet foods. Now, with more than 100 stores across Texas, and more on the way, we’re bringing savings and selection to every corner of the Lone Star State. Contact FAQ Giving Employment Bar Supply Real Estate OUR MISSION IS TO KEEP EVERYONE IN GOOD SPIRITS BY OFFERING AN INVITING, FUN PLACE WHERE ALL ARE WELCOME, IMPORTANT AND APPRECIATED. STAY CONNECTED WITH US SHOP Specials Wine Spirits Beer & Seltzers Mixers Cheese Finer Foods Deli Party Trays Gifts Glassware Bar Accessories Wine Club Spec’s Swag Gift Registry Spec’s Gift Cards ENTERTAIN Cocktail Insider Cocktail Recipes Expert Reviews Glassware Guide Party Planning Spec’sology Special Events What’s Hoppyning Pairing Suggestions FIND A STORE All Spec’s Locations Catering Locations Deli Locations Location Map GET IN TOUCH About Us Contact Us FAQ Curbside FAQ Shipping Info Privacy Policy Accessibility Statement Awards & Recognition Charitable Giving Employment Real Estate Restaurant & Bar Supplies Wholesale ©Spec's • Designed by the Lee Tilford Agency • Powered by LTA