Zubair Aftab wanted to bring more halal options to Guelph’s south end so shoppers didn’t have to look through labels when they went to get groceries.
Zubis Market at 1499 Gordon St. specializes in halal food. Its name comes from Aftab’s nickname, Zubis. His friends have called him that since as long as he can remember.
The grocery store opened less than a month ago after six months of renovations to what was previously an office.
Aftab wants the store to appeal to people from Pakistan, India, Syria, Egypt, and Afghanistan. He thinks there are a lot of people in the Muslim community that live near the area. Aftab knows there are students here and wants to appeal to them too. It will be a store for everyone, he said.
He’s lived in Guelph for 13 years and started his family here. For a brief couple years before Guelph he lived in Kitchener and Mississauga. When he moved from his home in Karachi, Pakistan, in 2000 he lived in the U.S. for seven years.
Aftab always wanted to open his own business and work for himself. He came to Guelph to open his first Circle K convenience store and then opened in places like Cambridge and Milton. His children went to the University of Guelph so it was all the more reason for him to stay in the city.
He isn’t much of a cook but the shelves of Zubis Market are filled with spices, lentils, tea, sauces, snacks and candy.
“All the stuff is halal. That was the basic idea. When you enter you don’t have to look at the ingredients,” said Aftab.
Near the back of the store is a meat counter with halal meat ranging from lamb to marinated chicken. Fresh produce will be offered later on.
The store has also incorporated an espresso and ice cream bar.
He said there is no need to boycott any items at the store because of potential tariffs since none of the products are from the U.S.
In a couple years time he wants to renovate to have a kitchen to make bread and Asian food. He thinks take-out food at the market would be a good idea for students who are looking for a quick meal.
Aftab said people have been excited about the store's opening. He wants it to be a welcoming place where anyone can come in and enjoy. He's looking to expand its offerings once the business grows.