Island Pacific opens new grocery store in Southern California

A new Island Pacific grocery store in Granada Hills, California, celebrated its grand opening Friday, following a soft launch in late July. 

The store, which specializes in products from the Philippines and other Asian countries, offers a wide selection of seafood, meat and produce, as well as non-food products, such as cookware, apparel and beauty products. The store also features a food court with several restaurant stalls, including Max Fried Chicken, Crab Mentality, San Honore Bakery and PhilHouse.  

It is the Filipino-American grocery chain’s 19th location. The company describes Island Pacific as “more than just a grocery store” and also “a place where you can immerse yourself in the rich culture and flavors of the Philippines and experience the warmth and hospitality of its people.” On that note, Island Pacific said its new store is similar to its Lake Forest, California, location, which is committed to promoting Filipino culture and language.  

“The store features beautiful Baybayin translations of words for different food items all around the store, created by artist Krystian Kabuay, the leading expert on pre-Philippine script,” the company explained. “Baybayin is an ancient script used in the Philippines before the arrival of the Spanish colonizers, and seeing it displayed on store shelves and signs is a powerful reminder of the country's rich history and heritage.” 

Island Pacific also noted that the new location features a mural by Filipino Long Beach artist Bodeck Luna, and the store’s grand opening will include live musical performances by Philippine Prince of Pop Jay R, Kayamanan Folk Arts and Pagkaraguian Kulintang Ensemble, and DJ Gingee. Consul General of Los Angeles Edgar Badajos will also attend. 

The Granada Hills location is the first new store for the chain since Christine Peebles was named chief marketing officer in July. “Her appointment as chief marketing officer at Island Pacific Supermarket further strengthens the company’s commitment to serving its diverse customer base and celebrating Filipino food and culture,” the grocer said last month. 

The grocer operates stores in California and Las Vegas.