Canada’s largest Asian grocery chain is making a significant leap into the U.S. market. T&T Supermarkets, well-known for its extensive selection of Asian groceries, will open a flagship location in Bellevue, Washington, on December 5. This 76,000-square-foot supermarket, situated at 12620 SE 41st Place, is being touted as the largest Asian grocery store in Washington State.
With a commitment to provide a remarkable shopping experience, the new Bellevue store promises a diverse range of products. It will cater to a variety of consumer needs, featuring fresh produce, live seafood, bakery goods, and health and beauty products. Additionally, T&T Supermarkets will offer a unique in-store kitchen where shoppers can purchase prepared meals. Offerings will include popular dishes such as Peking duck, sushi, crispy chicken, and barbecue items from a self-service hot bar. This comprehensive approach addresses the increasing consumer demand for convenience without sacrificing quality.
A remarkable aspect of the Bellevue location is its impressive selection of private label products—over 200 items. These include specialty items such as pork soup dumplings, Korean kalbi marinade, and seaweed snacks, reflecting the richness of Asian culinary traditions. Moreover, shoppers can explore a staggering collection of more than 750 types of wines and spirits, making T&T an exciting shopping destination for those looking to indulge in both authentic flavors and new experiences.
Tina Lee, CEO of T&T Supermarkets, expressed enthusiasm about introducing the U.S. audience to the T&T shopping experience. She noted, “From our fresh kitchen dishes to our one-of-a-kind bakery and exclusive private-label items, we aim to bring the rich flavors of Asia directly to the community.” This statement underlines T&T’s mission to become a culinary hub within the Pacific Northwest, catering to not only Asian families but also anyone eager to explore diverse culinary options.
In preparation for the grand opening, T&T is incentivizing early shoppers. The first 500 customers in line will receive $10 store gift cards, with additional giveaways planned throughout the day. Cultural performances will enhance the festive atmosphere, drawing in a crowd eager to embrace the new shopping experience. To further engage customers, T&T is launching a rewards program through their mobile app, which will enable faster checkouts and exclusive deals.
Looking ahead, T&T is not stopping with just one store. Plans are already in motion for two additional locations in the U.S. A store in north Seattle is expected to open in the summer of 2025, followed by a San Jose location in the fall of the same year. This expansion aligns with the broader trend of increasing Asian culinary acceptance in North America, demonstrating a shift in consumer preferences toward more diverse food options.
Founded in Richmond, British Columbia, T&T Supermarkets operates over 35 locations across Canada in provinces including British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec. The company’s parent organization, Loblaw Companies Limited, is a powerhouse in the Canadian retail sector with more than 2,400 stores and a workforce exceeding 190,000 employees. In fact, Loblaw ranks as No. 10 on the Progressive Grocer’s 2024 list of the top food and consumables retailers in North America, highlighting its substantial market impact.
As T&T Supermarkets prepares for its debut in the U.S. retail scene, they are not only introducing grocery shopping; they are cultivating a cultural experience that resonates with both traditional Asian and modern American culinary consumers. This venture marks a pivotal moment for T&T, and it will be interesting to observe how they navigate the competitive landscape of the U.S. grocery market while establishing themselves as a leader in Asian grocery retailing.
As the grand opening approaches, community members and food enthusiasts alike are eager to witness the launch of T&T Supermarkets in Bellevue. The anticipation surrounding this event reflects the potential growth of Asian grocery stores within the American retail landscape, offering a taste of Asia to a broader audience.
