In a recent announcement made by Joseph Lee, the head of the upcoming 99 Ranch Market branch in Flushing, Queens, New York, it was revealed that the well-known Asian supermarket chain would be opening its doors on Main Street in early April this year. The new branch will be located at 37-11 Main Street, taking over the former Hong Kong Supermarket space. The supermarket on the ground floor will cover approximately 22,000 square feet, while the lower level will house a “Food Court” spanning 15,000 square feet with over 20 dining options. Improvements include converting the staircase near the Main Street entrance to an escalator for the convenience of customers.
Lee explained that the decision to open a branch in Flushing came after the closure of the Hong Kong Supermarket at the end of 2023. Following a site visit in February 2024 at the invitation of the landlord, they secured the location. Despite the presence of over 20 supermarkets in Flushing, Lee expressed confidence in 99 Ranch Market’s foothold in the area. He emphasized the chain’s superior management, larger procurement capabilities, freshness of products, competitive pricing, and top-notch service, aiming to offer consumers a wider range of choices.
99 Ranch Market, founded by Taiwanese immigrant Roger H. Chen in Westminster, California in 1984, has since expanded to operate 70 stores nationwide. The first New York state branch opened in Westbury, Long Island, about a half-hour drive from Flushing, in April 2022. The Flushing branch marks the chain’s debut in New York City.
Lee highlighted the price competitiveness advantage of 99 Ranch Market as a large chain. With a network of profitable stores, the company can afford to sustain losses at individual locations. He acknowledged the unintentional impact this might have on smaller businesses, stressing that while it’s not a deliberate strategy, it offers a significant edge in competition.
As observed by reporters, renovations are currently underway at the Flushing branch. Lee assured that the roof has been completely refurbished to prevent leakage issues, and the interior design will be aesthetically appealing, aiming to make 99 Ranch Market the most attractive and comfortable supermarket in Flushing.
Leasing for the spaces in the Food Court on the lower level is nearly finalized. Lee explained that significant renovations were done to address ceiling leaks, wastewater leakage, restroom blockages, and HVAC concerns. Among the planned food vendors are Hot Pot, Taiwanese cuisine, Good Taste, Japanese food, Bubble Tea shop, Yunnan Rice Noodles, BBQ skewers, Beef Noodle Soup, Vietnamese Pho, Screw Noodles, Lanzhou Ramen, Fujian snacks, and more, with a couple of vacant spots available for negotiation.
Looking ahead, Lee revealed that after opening three branches in the past six years, 99 Ranch Market plans to accelerate its expansion, potentially opening a new branch annually. Negotiations are also in progress for a branch in Manhattan’s Chinatown.