In the late 1950s, a San Francisco businessman turned traveler and importer began selling shiploads of hand-woven wicker from one of the city’s piers. As crates were unloaded, locals lined up and loaded up. Even curious tourists were drawn to the unique and unusual.

With such a receptive audience eagerly awaiting his return, it only made sense to open a store. And in 1958 he opened the first store in San Francisco’s famed Fisherman’s Wharf and called it Cost Plus World Market. The store quickly became a destination for those who craved original and handmade items from around the world. Items were sold at cost, plus ten percent – hence the name Cost Plus World Market!