Japanese retail group Aeon plans to expand its network of general merchandise stores and large-format supermarkets in Vietnam eightfold over the next five years, reports Nikkei Asia.

The company currently operates 12 general merchandise stores in Vietnam, including three “super-supermarkets” – hybrid formats combining groceries, food courts, and beauty and household sections  – along with 36 small-format supermarkets, including Citimart outlets run by an Aeon subsidiary.

Yasuki Furusawa, President, Aeon Retail, told Nikkei Asia that the company aim for 100 general merchandise stores and super-supermarkets, and 200 smaller-scale grocery shops by 2030.

In January, Aeon opened its latest flagship, Aeon Xuan Thuy, in a bustling Hanoi district near offices, schools, and a new subway station.

The four-storey building houses food, cosmetics, furniture, and apparel on its first three floors, while the third floor includes a 450-seat dining area. Meanwhile, the prepared foods section spans 1620sqm, offering sushi, ramen, boxed meals, fried dishes, and baked goods.

“Going to the store as a family, having each person pick out what they want, and sitting around a table to eat it is a big form of entertainment in Vietnam,” he added.