H Mart, the Asian supermarket chain, will open a two-level flagship store inside Pacific Commons in Fremont, California, with a floor area exceeding 100,000sqft.
The project represents the largest investment in H Mart’s history and will become the company’s largest store in California. Construction is scheduled to begin late this year.
While H Mart operates multiple stores across Northern California, this will be the brand’s first location in Fremont.
From a retail real estate perspective, Rick Hearn, VP of leasing at Vestar, said the project would strengthen Pacific Commons’ position in the Northern California retail market. He said Vestar is working with Heitman and the City of Fremont to respond to changing consumer shopping preferences. The focus is on experiential retail concepts that support centre activity and serve the wider community.
The Fremont flagship will mark the first deployment of H Mart’s multi-level store format, combining grocery retail with food hall and dine-in components. The food hall will feature a mix of fast-casual dining, full-service restaurants, bar concepts and entertainment offerings.
Brian Kwon, president of H Mart, said the integration of dining and community spaces reflects the company’s strategic direction.
“Our priority is to provide the Fremont community with a convenient ‘one-stop shopping’ experience and high-quality food and service,” he said.
Local authorities have also highlighted the long-term economic and social implications of the development. “Their transformative investment reflects strong confidence in Fremont and the Pacific Commons Shopping Center,” said Fremont mayor Raj Salwan.
“The innovative reuse of a vacant large-format retail space reflects the city’s commitment to reimagining commercial properties into destinations that generate jobs, amenities, and lasting community value.”
Pacific Commons is owned by Heitman and managed by Vestar. The centre is home to more than 55 retailers and restaurants, including Target, Costco, TJ Maxx, Nordstrom Rack and Sephora.
