Trader Joe’s Expansion: From Pasadena to Virginia Beach and Beyond

Trader Joe's is no ordinary grocery store. With its unique product lines, friendly staff in Hawaiian shirts, and cult-like customer loyalty, the brand has long stood out in a sea of traditional supermarkets. The latest expansion includes a new location in Virginia Beach's Town Center at 220 Constitution Drive—part of a larger national growth strategy.

This expansion is not just about filling an empty storefront. It reflects the continued strength of the Trader Joe's brand and its strategic growth across key urban centers. But to really understand what makes this news so exciting, it helps to look back at where the company started—and where it might be headed next.

A Brief History of Trader Joe's

The first Trader Joe's opened in 1967 in Pasadena, California. It was the vision of Joe Coulombe, who wanted to create a store for educated, adventurous shoppers. Early on, the store featured nautical themes, international products, and a focus on private-label goods that allowed for lower prices and greater quality control.

In 1979, the company was acquired by German retail mogul Theo Albrecht (co-founder of Aldi Nord), though Trader Joe's has continued to operate independently in the U.S. Since then, it has expanded to over 500 stores across 40+ states, all while maintaining a reputation for quirky products, great value, and a loyal following.

What Sets Trader Joe's Apart

Trader Joe's success isn’t built on coupons or massive product selection. It thrives on:

• Curated private-label goods not found elsewhere

• A commitment to quality over quantity

• Playful branding and themed store décor

• A strong focus on customer experience

Rather than overwhelming shoppers with options, Trader Joe's simplifies the grocery experience while introducing products that consistently surprise and delight customers.

Growth and Demand

Trader Joe's has remained relatively conservative in its growth strategy, choosing locations carefully. The announcement of a second Virginia Beach location—especially one in Town Center—is part of a national plan to open 30 new stores across 17 states. Other cities expecting new Trader Joe’s locations include:

• Daytona Beach, FL

• Myrtle Beach, SC

• New Orleans, LA

• Peachtree City, GA

• Broken Arrow, OK

• Bee Cave and McKinney, TX

• Newton, MA

• Friendship Heights, DC

• Holladay, UT

The upcoming Virginia Beach store will replace the former Bed Bath & Beyond space and is expected to occupy around 14,000 square feet. An official opening date has not yet been announced.

Why It Matters for Virginia Beach

This new location isn't just about groceries. It’s about:

• Continued investment in the Town Center area

• Boosted foot traffic and local economic development

• A fresh, consumer-driven retail experience that complements other nearby businesses

It also adds a second Trader Joe’s location to the Virginia Beach area, making the brand more accessible to residents across the region.

Final Thoughts

Trader Joe’s has always been a brand that moved to the beat of its own drum. Its limited selection, private-label focus, and people-first culture have helped it carve out a permanent place in American grocery retail. With this new store in Virginia Beach—and new locations in key cities across the country—the company is deepening its presence in communities that value quality, personality, and a unique shopping experience.

To learn more about the upcoming Virginia Beach location, you can read the announcement from WTKR here.

Southern Living also covered the brand’s expansion plans, including other cities like Myrtle Beach and Daytona Beach. You can check out their story here.