H Mart to Open Largest US Store in Fremont
Korean grocery chain H Mart is set to open its largest U.S. location in Fremont, California. The supermarket, known for its wide selection of Asian foods, is expected to become a major shopping destination in the Bay Area. The expansion highlights the growing consumer demand and cultural influence of Asian cuisine in the U.S.
The new Fremont H Mart, located in the Pacific Commons Shopping Center, will be a two-story, 100,000-square-foot flagship store, making it the largest in the U.S. This project represents the largest investment in the company's history and will take over a former Kohl's building at 43782 Christy St. Construction is slated to begin in late 2026 with a projected opening in late 2027. This location will be the first of H Mart's new "multi-level prototype," featuring a comprehensive food hall. The second floor will house a variety of fast-casual and full-service restaurants, a bar, and entertainment offerings, aiming to create an immersive destination beyond a traditional grocery store. The choice of Fremont is strategic, tapping into a significant local demographic. The city has a large Asian population, with figures around 63%. Fremont Mayor Raj Salwan has welcomed the "transformative investment," highlighting its role in generating jobs and community value by repurposing a large vacant retail space. Founded in 1982 in Woodside, Queens, H Mart has grown into the largest Asian supermarket chain in the U.S., with over 97 locations. The chain has been expanding its presence in the Bay Area, with existing stores in San Francisco, San Jose, and another planned for Dublin. The expansion of H Mart and other Asian grocery chains reflects a growing demand for international foods. While catering to Asian communities, H Mart has seen a rise in non-Asian customers, who now make up almost 30% of their shoppers. This new Fremont store is part of a broader trend of Asian supermarkets becoming major cultural and economic hubs.
