The London Drugs that shut down on Kingsway after 40 years already has a replacement, and it is a familiar name in the Asian grocery scene.
We spotted a large “88 Supermarket is Coming Soon” banner hanging across the front of the former London Drugs building, near the intersection of Joyce Street and Kingsway.
This is a significant takeover.
The London Drugs at this location closed on February 2 after operating for 40 years.
The closure was a blow to the community.
The store had served as a neighbourhood anchor since 1985, housing a pharmacy, Canada Post outlet, tech department, and grocery section.
Now 88 Supermarket is stepping in to fill that gap.
While T&T focuses more on Chinese items, 88 Supermarket leans towards Southeast Asian products, boasting a diverse range of Vietnamese and Filipino ingredients.
They pride themselves on carrying one of the largest selections of ethnic foods in Metro Vancouver.
We have covered their expansion several times, including when they opened their first Richmond location in 2024.
You’ll find a mix of local, North American, and international flavours from the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, Japan, China, and beyond.
Assuming this location copies the format of their other stores, it will also mean a hot food section will make its way here too.
The surrounding area has a large Chinese and Vietnamese population, which makes this a natural fit for an Asian supermarket of this size.
No opening date has been announced yet, but the “Coming Soon” banners suggest things are moving forward.
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Address: 3328 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC