The Lotte chain that already operates in Ellicott City will open a new Catonsville grocery in the space being vacated by Toys R' Us, reports Brian Conlin in the Sun.
Obviously, this is farther from Howard County than the Ellicott City store at Rte 40 and Rte 29. But I have to admit that isn't my favorite store. If the new Lotte were larger or more appealing, then it could attract people willing to drive an extra five or 10 minutes. Conlin reports that Lotte hopes to open next summer.
I'm scratching my head at this...an H-Mart in Security Square, one in Catonsville, and another Lotte just down the road in Ellicott City. I could understand if Lotte wanted to move their existing store for a much-needed facelift and for better parking (even though they would miss out on the synergy of that plaza), but they should have bought the old Safeway if they wanted to move.
ReplyDeleteseems awful close for their second store in the area. I would think a place that's not on the same road would be a little more... strategic.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to see the stats on the current Korean population in the local area. I know that other ethnicities go to these markets, but Koreans are still the primary target. The fact that the EC area has FOUR Korean Supermarkets in the area is amazing...wonder if the area can support it...Ellicott City the new Annandale? lol
ReplyDeleteWell...remember they started to build a grocery store right next to the old Super Fresh (now Shoppers) on Rt. 40, where Car Max is now. I'm not sure much planning or thinking goes on.
ReplyDeleteHow many cupcake stores or yogurt shops can the area support? On Rt. 103, we had 2 dry cleaners open in the same short strip.
Is this the shopping center with Panara and Pier One? If so, the parking is already awful.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Cate, the parking situation in that plaza lot is terrible and extremely lacking.
ReplyDeleteI think it is great! Having the diversity growing and giving all the opportunity to purchase fresh produce, seafood, meats and so much more. I have been going to Lotte markets for well over 7 years now. They have a great selection and the new location offers a wider range of food from multiple cultures.
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