Japan’s Retail Giant LOPIA Opens First Thai Store at Central Chaengwattana

Brickinfo News Agency – Japanese supermarket chain LOPIA has officially entered the Thai market, launching its first Southeast Asian branch at Central Chaengwattana on February 11, 2026. Occupying 1,000 square meters on the G floor, the store introduces a “food theme park” concept designed to provide authentic Japanese products, specifically targeting a “wagyu revolution” by offering premium Japanese beef at accessible price points.

The expansion into Thailand marks the second international market for the OIC Group subsidiary, following a successful entry into Taiwan in 2023. The store features five dedicated departments: meat, fruits and vegetables, seafood, ready-to-eat meals, and processed goods. By managing its own procurement and processing of beef, the company aims to disrupt the local market with competitive pricing on high-end imports.

Hitoshi Mizumoto, Director and Head of Asia Headquarters, stated that the store’s philosophy centers on providing “quality products at accessible prices.” He emphasized the goal of creating an environment where consumers can experience Japan without traveling, supported by a diverse inventory ranging from fresh seafood and seasonal fruits like strawberries and apples to processed items like seasoning sauces and Japanese desserts.

A significant focus of the Thailand branch is the seafood section, which features extra-large sushi made with tuna and hotate. The brand utilizes authentic Japanese vinegar for its sushi rice to maintain flavor consistency with its Japanese locations. This commitment to authenticity helped the chain secure the “Best of Super 2025” title in Japan, where it currently operates 139 branches.

“Currently, Taiwan serves as our model for international market expansion,” Mizumoto explained, noting that the brand has grown to nine branches in Taiwan in less than three years. “Once customers recognize the value we deliver, LOPIA JAPAN supermarkets in Taiwan have become extremely popular, to the point that customer entry must be limited per round. We believe we will be able to create the same phenomenon in Thailand as well.”

The parent company, OIC Group, which reported total sales of 521 billion yen for the fiscal year ending February 2025, views the Thai opening as a strategic step in bringing Japanese food culture to the global stage. The branch at Central Chaengwattana serves as the flagship for what the company hopes will be a broader regional presence.