A Grand Opening of a New Asian Supermarket

A brand-new Asian supermarket has just opened its doors on Montreal's South Shore, and it’s already making waves in the community. Despite the area housing several similar stores, this grand opening was highly anticipated, offering a fresh experience for shoppers.

T&T's Unique Offerings

“We really carry some unique products, and we give people a flavor of home,” said T&T CEO Tina Lee in an interview with CTV News. “We bring that nostalgic kind of feeling.” Positioned in the bustling Quartier Dix30 in Brossard, this T&T location is the company's second venture in Quebec, encompassing an impressive 55,000 square feet of retail space. The first store is located in Saint-Laurent on the Island of Montreal.

Community Excitement

The excitement surrounding T&T’s arrival in the region was palpable. “When we first announced that we were going to open in Montreal, people were so excited. It was like a tsunami of love,” Lee recalls. However, many were surprised that Brossard wasn’t the inaugural location. “What? Why is it not in Brossard?” she remembers them asking. Taking this feedback to heart, Lee swiftly recognized Brossard's significance for their expansion. “That was a very good clue that Brossard had to be somewhere we needed to be,” she stated. “All the stars aligned shortly after our successful Saint-Laurent opening.”

Challenges of Operating in Quebec

Introducing T&T to Quebec posed unique challenges, particularly concerning the province’s French language requirements. “The French language requirement, definitely, was very intimidating,” Lee admitted. To ensure inclusivity, a dedicated team of translators worked tirelessly to adapt all store signage and packaging into French, showcasing a commitment to the local culture. “I totally understand that in Quebec, maintaining and being able to operate your daily life in French is an important feature of preserving the culture,” she explained. “We understand because we are also trying to advance our Asian culture and our Chinese culture.”

A Legacy of Success

Founded in 1993 in Vancouver, BC, T&T was created by Tina's mother, Cindy Lee, a Taiwanese immigrant, along with her husband, Jack Lee. The name stems from the first initials of their daughters, Tina and Tiffany. Today, T&T proudly stands as Canada’s largest Asian supermarket chain, boasting locations across British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario.

Contributing to the Culinary Scene

Lee attributes the chain's success to meticulous attention to detail—everything from product arrangement to hygiene standards and pricing. “People of all different backgrounds are in there,” she expressed enthusiastically. “That, to me, is really surprising and flattering, and it truly makes me so happy that we can contribute to the food scene in this way.”

A New Chapter in Brossard