Craving a taste of spicy Chongqing hot pot or some hearty Beijing dumplings? Alibaba Group’s high-tech grocery chain Freshippo is on hand to help North American consumers recreate the flavors of China in their own kitchens.
On Thursday, the business rolled out a selection of its private label products at 99 Ranch Market, the largest Chinese supermarket chain in the U.S., and online via Asian goods retailer Yamibuy.
The launch marks the first time a domestic Chinese grocery store has exported its self-branded products overseas at a large scale.
It’s a milestone for the business and consumers alike.
The partnerships will make it easier for shoppers to make their favorite Chinese dishes by offering pre-mixed spice blends and sauces instead of single-ingredient products, bringing a taste of home to many.
“Freshippo’s compound seasonings can help Chinese people living overseas more easily prepare complex Chinese dishes,” said Yanni Xu, Export Manager of International Business at Freshippo.
The company has been making private-label items for mainland Chinese shoppers since 2017. Product lines include produce and meat-focused Freshippo Daily Fresh, pre-made meals from Freshippo Kitchen and Freshippo’s seafood and meat range Difresco.
Now, these offerings, which range from noodles and snacks to condiments and spices, are also within the reach of hungry North American consumers.
Early data suggests Freshippo is helping to satiate their appetites. Within the first week of launching on Yamibuy, Freshippo’s private-label products topped new product rankings on both coasts of the U.S.
This is just the first destination in Freshippo’s international expansion.
The company, which operates over 360 stores in 28 Chinese cities, plans to launch its private-label products in Australia, Singapore, South Korea, and other countries this year.
What is Freshippo, also known as Hema? Take a store tour now