John Catsimatidis

John Catsimatidis – Life, Business, and Influence

Learn the inspiring story of John Catsimatidis — from his immigrant roots to building a multi-billion dollar empire in New York. Discover his business ventures, political ambitions, philosophy, and legacy.

Introduction

John A. Catsimatidis is a Greek-American billionaire businessman, media owner, philanthropist, and occasional political figure. Over decades he has built a sprawling empire spanning grocery retail, real estate, energy, aviation, and media. His life is often cast as a classic “rags to riches” tale: arriving in New York as an infant, growing up in Harlem, and eventually becoming a central figure in business and civic life. Today he remains influential both in and outside the boardroom.

Early Life and Family

John Catsimatidis was born on September 7, 1948, on the Greek island of Nisyros. Six months after his birth, his parents immigrated to the United States, settling in Harlem, New York City, where his father worked as a busboy. Catsimatidis grew up on 135th Street in a modest apartment.

He attended the Brooklyn Technical High School, graduating in 1966. After high school, he enrolled at New York University (NYU) to study electrical engineering, working nights and weekends in a small supermarket to help support his family. He completed much of his coursework but ultimately dropped out eight credits shy of graduating, opting to devote himself full time to business.

Business Ventures & Achievements

Grocery & Retail Foundations

While still in school, Catsimatidis began working at a grocery store on 137th Street owned by a friend’s uncle. Over time, he acquired part of that store and gradually expanded. By his 25th birthday, he had grown the business to 10 Red Apple supermarkets across Manhattan.

Red Apple became the base from which he expanded further. He introduced customer-friendly innovations such as extended hours, free delivery, and check-cashing services to distinguish his stores.

In 1986, Catsimatidis acquired Gristedes supermarkets and other specialty food stores, further consolidating his position in New York’s grocery market. Over time, Gristedes became one of the better-known supermarket brands in Manhattan, often associated with the Catsimatidis name.

Expansion into Energy, Real Estate, and Aviation

Catsimatidis diversified aggressively beyond retail. He founded the Red Apple Group, a parent company that holds interests in real estate, energy, aviation, convenience stores, and industrial technology.

A key energy investment came through United Refining Company, a subsidiary of Red Apple. Catsimatidis became chairman and CEO of United Refining, taking part in refining and petroleum operations.

Real estate holdings have also played a major role. His portfolio includes properties in New York, Florida, and Pennsylvania. He also has aviation interests, using private aircraft and engaging in related investments.

Media, Radio & Broadcasting

In media, John Catsimatidis is well known as a talk radio host. He hosts The Cats Roundtable on WABC and Cats at Night, broadcasting both on radio and as a podcast. In 2019 he initiated the purchase of WABC radio, and the transaction was officially completed in March 2020. Since then, his Red Apple Media group has expanded into regional radio holdings (e.g. WRCR, WLIR).

He’s also credited as a producer on several media projects, such as The First American and appears in credits for Mornings with Maria Bartiromo and Cavuto: Coast to Coast.

Political & Civic Involvement

Mayoral Ambitions & Party Affiliation

Catsimatidis has expressed political ambitions over the years. He ran (or sought to run) for Mayor of New York City in 2013, entering the Republican primary. In that race, he was defeated by Joseph J. Lhota.

Originally affiliated with the Democratic Party, Catsimatidis switched to the Republican Party in 2009. Over time, he has remained active in political fundraising and commentary, contributing to diverse campaigns across the spectrum.

He and his family have donated significantly to political causes. His public voice through radio has also allowed him to be a civic commentator on issues in New York.

Philanthropy & Civic Service

Across his career, Catsimatidis has engaged in philanthropic efforts. He established the John Catsimatidis Scholarship Fund at NYU’s Stern School of Business, awarding multiple scholarships annually. He also co-chaired the Brooklyn Tech Endowment Foundation, supporting his alma mater.

He has participated in organizations such as the Police Athletic League, the National Kidney Foundation, Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, Alzheimer’s groups, and the Manhattan Council of the Boy Scouts. He has received honors such as the Ellis Island Medal of Honor for his efforts.

Personality, Philosophy & Leadership Style

John Catsimatidis is often described as energetic, bold, and outspoken. His public persona blends businessman and media figure—someone who is comfortable voicing political opinions and discussing policy.

He tends to emphasize self-reliance, hard work, and the value of risk-taking. His own life story is often presented as demonstration of the American dream: immigrant beginnings, hard work, seizing opportunities, diversification.

In interviews, he has noted that in business, one must evolve and adapt. He doesn’t limit himself to a single sector but pursues cross-sector synergies—retail feeding into energy, real estate, media.

His radio platform gives him a direct line to public discourse, and he often uses it to advocate for business-friendly policies and local issues in New York.

Legacy & Influence

While still active, Catsimatidis already holds a notable legacy:

• A model of entrepreneurial diversification: Many know him as the supermarket mogul, but his success spans many sectors.

• Media mogul status: Owning a major radio station in New York gives him influence in public discourse.

• Public persona bridging business & politics: Few business leaders become radio hosts or run for office; he combines these roles uniquely.

• Immigrant success story: His life continues to serve as an inspirational example to immigrants and children of immigrants seeking upward mobility.

• Local New York impact: His businesses, philanthropy, and civic engagement are deeply rooted in the NYC community.

Notable Facts & Highlights

• In the 2024 Forbes 400 ranking, Catsimatidis ranked 299th, with an estimated net worth of about USD 4.5 billion.

• His son, John Catsimatidis Jr., is now president and COO of the Red Apple Group.

• His daughter, Andrea Catsimatidis, is active in Republican politics and serves as chairwoman of the Manhattan Republican Party.

• In 2025, he made a cameo appearance in the film Marty Supreme, marking his first acting on-screen role.

• He has occasionally floated renewed political ambitions, including potential runs for NYC mayor again.