Uwajimaya to Open Two New Washington Stores in 2027
The specialty grocer will expand its Pacific Northwest footprint with new locations in Issaquah and Tacoma.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Uwajimaya is set to launch two new grocery stores in Washington by 2027, growing its regional presence. These openings will bring the family-founded company to a total of six locations across Washington and Oregon.
Why it matters
Expanding into new municipalities like Issaquah and Tacoma allows the long-standing grocer to broaden its reach within Washington. The move marks a significant step for the retailer as it approaches a century of operations in the region.
The grocer will operate 6 locations following the 2027 expansion, building on a history that spans 98 years of service.
The players
Uwajimaya
A long-standing Pacific Northwest grocer known for specializing in Asian goods and produce.
Fujimatsu Moriguchi
The founder who established the grocery chain in 1928.
The details
The new Issaquah store is currently under construction at Town & Country Square in a building previously occupied by Rite Aid. Meanwhile, the second location is slated to open in the Tacoma Central area.
Timeline
1928: Uwajimaya was founded by Fujimatsu Moriguchi.
October 2026: The company celebrates its 98th anniversary.
2027: New stores are scheduled to open in Tacoma and Issaquah.
Market Landscape
The expansion follows a growth trajectory established by the 1928 founding of Uwajimaya, marking continued regional presence after nearly a century of service. This development positions the company to maintain its competitive stance in the Pacific Northwest grocery market.
Residents in Issaquah and Tacoma will gain new local access to the grocer's specialty products starting in 2027. Shoppers should anticipate increased convenience for sourcing ethnic goods as the store count reaches six.
The takeaway
The addition of two new storefronts underscores the brand's long-term commitment to its Washington customer base. Interested customers can monitor local development updates for the specific launch dates in 2027.
Further reading
Read more about regional retail activity in the Washington Openings & Closings section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Kitsap Sun.
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