About Us

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.

Two vintage neon signs with the Spec's name and logo
Vintage photograph of two people standing next to a birthday cake decorated with liquor bottles

1963 Spec’s Celebrates Its First Year of Business!

Vintage photograph of store decorated with balloons for Spec's 1st birthday party
A group of Spec's employees from the early 1970s

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.

Southern Beverage Journal cover and article

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.”

Black and white photograph of a man holding a meat and cheese tray

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.

Lisa Rydman with her mother and father

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.

Lindy and John Rydman accepting award
Vintage Spec's neon sign that says "Raising your spirits since 1962"

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.

20th Anniversary Vintage Virtuoso Gala
Seal of the Governor of the State of Texas

2022 Governor Abbott Appoints Lindy Rydman, Co-Owner of Spec’s, To University Of North Texas System Board Of Regents

The Board of Regents is composed of nine distinguished and dedicated Texans who are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate.

2022 Spec’s Celebrates 60th Anniversary

For 60 years, Spec’s has been your Texas go-to for good times and gourmet foods in Texas. Now with over 180 locations and more on the way, we’re bringing savings and selection to every corner of the Lone Star State.

Our mission is to keep everyone in good spirits by offering an inviting, fun place where all are welcome, important and appreciated.