H Mart Expands Nationwide with New Stores Amid K-Food Boom

H Mart, the largest Asian supermarket chain in the United States, is accelerating its nationwide expansion amid the growing popularity of Korean food.

New Stores and Major Renovations Across Key States

H Mart recently announced plans to open new stores and carry out large-scale renovations in major areas, including California, Florida, Washington, and New Jersey, further reinforcing its leadership in the Asian food market.

This fall, H Mart plans to open a new 70,000-square-foot location on Beach Boulevard in Westminster, Orange County. The site will feature a large food hall with 11 popular brands, including Hong Kong Banjeom 0410, Mubongri Sundaeguk, Jaws Tteokbokki, Gongcha, and Tous Les Jours.

In Florida, following the upcoming opening of the Orlando store, H Mart has submitted plans to build a second location on West Hillsborough Avenue in Tampa.

In Seattle, Washington, H Mart is continuing its expansion. The company recently applied for a liquor license in the Ballard area, confirming plans to open a new store at the former site of New Seasons Market, aiming to serve the Korean American and broader Asian communities.

Meanwhile, the Cherry Hill location in New Jersey will undergo its first major renovation in 24 years. H Mart plans to remodel the existing store and replace the closed restaurant and retail spaces with a new food court, bakery, and retail shops. With the growing Asian population and rising demand for Asian food in the area, the renovation is drawing strong local interest.

Accelerated Growth Since Early 2025

Since the beginning of 2025, H Mart has increased its pace of new store openings.

In January 2025, it opened a 35,000-square-foot store in Urbana, Illinois, its first outside the Chicago area and sixth in the state. This location includes a food hall with four brands: Jaws Tteokbokki, Chodang Sundubu, Hong Kong Banjeom 0410, and Paris Baguette.

In February 2025, H Mart launched a new Korean food hall called “Market Eater-y” in Austin, Texas. It also opened a 30,000-square-foot store in Chino, California, and recently launched its first store in Las Vegas, Nevada, covering approximately 55,000 square feet. The Las Vegas location features seven popular Asian food brands, including Hong Kong Banjeom 0410, Jaws Tteokbokki, and BBQ Chicken.

Focus on Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

In addition to expansion, H Mart is strengthening its efforts in sustainable operations. It installed insulated glass doors and bright LED lighting in refrigerated display cases at five California stores. These improvements are expected to save approximately $300,000 annually in energy costs and have earned H Mart about $70,000 in utility incentives. The upgrades are also projected to enhance food freshness, improve the in-store environment, and boost sales.

From a Single Store to a National Chain

Founded in 1982 with its first store in Woodside, Queens, New York, H Mart now operates over 100 stores across 18 states. It employs approximately 6,000 people and manages five regional distribution centers and processing facilities, solidifying its status as the largest Asian supermarket chain in the United States.

BY EUNYOUNG LEE [lee.eunyoung6@koreadaily.com]