H Mart has finally opened its doors.
The popular Korean and Asian supermarket chain, which boasts several locations on the Lower Mainland, welcomed its first customers at Mayfair Shopping Centre on Thursday, May 22, at 9 a.m. Fans of the asian specialty grocer were abuzz with hundreds lining up as early as 7 a.m.
“It’s overwhelming to see hundreds of people today show up for the opening of H Mart. Everyone’s been waiting for this, and we’re thankful to have them as part of the community,” said Linda Qin, the CEO of Central Walk, owners of Mayfair Shopping Centre.
A lion dance – a tradition bringing good luck and fortune – marked the store's opening with officials from Mayfair, their ownership group, Central Walk and H Mart in attendance. The first 500 customers received a free $5 gift card.
"I have never been in a store like this before. It's our first, so I'm excited," said Terry, a day one shopper.
"There's been a lot of hype about it, so I'm waiting to go in to see what all the hype is about. I hope I get pleasantly surprised.”
The opening ceremonies will continue until May 25, featuring appearances by a K-pop dance team and a Taekwondo demonstration
"It will be a little different each day – there will be a show every day," said Tae Kim, the marketing and PR manager for H.Mart B.C., ahead of the store's opening.
Originally slated to open in November of 2023, the launch was unexpectedly delayed, with initial reports pushing the opening back to 2025.
The store is set to open in the space previously occupied by Toys R Us at Mayfair Mall, which presented challenges on the long road to opening due to the lack of refrigeration and freezer systems.
"We had to build a whole system in that store. It was the biggest challenge for us," said Kim. "And also the power. They didn't use that much power, so we have to add more power transferred to our unit."
But now Kim is excited to see the store finally open for business.
"We've been getting a lot of positive feedback from the people around our store. We are happy to be here, and we are glad to have a lot of people show up this morning. Thank you, Victoria. “
Known for its extensive selection of fresh groceries and favourite Korean foods, H Mart, which was slated to open in 2025, promises to be a welcome addition to Victoria's culinary landscape. Kim says the store will feature 50 per cent Korean products, 30 per cent Chinese, Japanese and Southeast Asian products, with a small selection of western dairy, meat and produce rounding out their selections.
The store will also feature butchery and seafood sections, cosmetics and a French Asian bakery – Tour Les Jours.
The store plans to hire 100-120 local employees, with 70 already on the payroll as of May 14.
“I’m super excited. H Mart definitely brings new energy and excitement to the mall,” said Mae Wang, general manager of Mayfair Shopping Centre.
