Entrepreneur Eric Shogren, Wuollet Bakery Visionary, Passes Away

Eric Shogren, a prominent entrepreneur and the driving force behind Wuollet Bakery, passed away on December 24, 2023, at the age of 59 due to a heart attack. Shogren, a Minneapolis native, made significant contributions to the food industry both locally and internationally, establishing restaurant chains and bakeries that left a lasting impact on communities.

Shogren’s journey began in the early 1990s when he and his wife, Olga, relocated to Novosibirsk, Russia. Guided by connections from Blake High School, they launched a series of successful enterprises, including New York Pizza, which became the first fast-food pizza restaurant in the city. This venture not only introduced a new dining option but also became a cultural landmark in post-Soviet Russia, expanding to over 30 locations nationwide.

In addition to New York Pizza, Shogren co-founded Kuzina, a bakery chain that became a leader in the sector. His influence in the hospitality industry extended to modernizing Russia’s largest movie theater, opening the first four-star French restaurant, and establishing a popular nightclub. Over the years, he managed more than 100 coffee and pastry shops under the Kuzina brand, primarily outside Moscow.

Despite facing challenges, including accusations of fraud in the late 2000s, Shogren was acquitted when the court found the statute of limitations had expired. Following these legal troubles, he returned to Minnesota, where he sought to reinvigorate his hometown’s food scene.

Legacy and Contributions to Minneapolis

In 2019, Shogren acquired the Wuollet Bakery brand, aiming to honor its legacy as a cherished part of the Minneapolis community. His daughter, Anna Shogren, described him as a visionary who believed that “great food builds community.” His commitment to creating joyful spaces for people was evident in his hands-on approach, often seen serving customers at the bakery.

Despite his efforts, the bakery faced financial difficulties in recent years, leading to multiple lawsuits, including one from Byline Bank which claimed Shogren owed $1.3 million in unpaid loans. The family also contended with eviction proceedings at various Wuollet locations, culminating in the closure of the last bakery in Uptown in September 2023.

Shogren’s publicist, Robb Leer, noted that he never intended to permanently close the bakery and that the family remains determined to revive the business model Shogren had envisioned. His family, including his wife Olga and their children—Anna, Alexander, Anastasia, Maxim, and Lev—continue to support the bakery’s legacy.

Personal Life and Community Impact

Born and raised in Minneapolis, Shogren was known as “Shogie” during his childhood and was a passionate hockey fan. He demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit from an early age, starting various businesses with his brothers. His dedication to building connections and fostering community remained central throughout his career.

Shogren is survived by his mother, Pat Shogren, his wife, children, a grandson named Rafael Eric, and numerous family members, friends, and colleagues worldwide. A celebration of his life will be organized at a later date, allowing those he influenced and inspired to honor his memory and contributions.

As the community reflects on Shogren’s impact, his legacy remains a powerful reminder of the importance of innovation, resilience, and the human spirit in business.