Trader Joe’s, a specialty grocery chain known for its neighborhood feel, is planned for South Philadelphia.
The supermarket recently signed a lease to anchor the new ground-up retail development at 1505-25 S. Columbus Blvd., according to The Philadelphia Business Journal.
The site was acquired by Ocean Block Capital and sits adjacent to another mixed-use development anchored by GIANT, with apartments and townhomes.
Trader Joe’s has built a loyal following with its private-label products, affordable prices and curated selection of groceries, frozen foods, snacks, fresh produce, household essentials and, where permitted, wine.
“Our buyers travel the world searching for products we think are exceptional and will find a following among our customers. To earn a spot on our shelves, each product is submitted to a rigorous tasting panel process, in which every aspect of quality is investigated in context of the price we can offer,” the website reads.
The supermarket’s website also features a collection of recipes made with products sold in its stores, including a breaded BBQ chicken sandwich, one-minute lentil salad and coffee-and garlic-seasoned pork chops.
Trader Joe’s opened its first store in Pasadena, California, in 1967 and has since expanded to more than 500 locations nationwide.
The South Philadelphia store will be the retailer’s third in the city, joining two Center City locations: one on Arch Street near Chinatown and the Pennsylvania Convention Center, and another on Market Street near Rittenhouse Square. Trader Joe’s also has Greater Philadelphia locations in Ardmore, King of Prussia, Berwyn, Media, Wayne, Exton, Jenkintown and North Wales.
An official opening date has not been announced. However, the outlet reported construction of the shopping center could wrap up by the end of 2027.
Visit the Trader Joe’s website and follow along on Instagram for the latest updates.
