Top 5 supermarkets in Vietnam
Vietnam’s retail landscape has evolved significantly, with modern supermarkets playing a crucial role. When identifying the “best” supermarkets, it often comes down to a balance of product variety (local vs. imported), price, store cleanliness and layout, and overall shopping experience. Here are 5 top supermarkets in Vietnam, catering to different needs.
Supermarkets in Vietnam
The concept of the modern supermarket in Vietnam is a relatively recent phenomenon, flourishing significantly since the country’s economic reforms (“Đổi Mới”) in the late 1980s. Before this, Vietnam operated under a centrally-planned economy where goods were scarce, and distribution relied heavily on state-run stores and traditional wet markets using a coupon system.
Early Beginnings (Pre-Doi Moi & Early Reforms) of supermarkets in Vietnam:
While the widespread modern supermarket is new, Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City) actually saw its first modern supermarket, Nguyen Du Supermarket, open in 1967. Modeled after Western counterparts, it featured shopping carts and express lanes, catering to the city’s wealthier class. However, this early venture was interrupted by the events of 1975, and large Western-style food centers largely disappeared for nearly two decades.
The true re-emergence began in the early 1990s as Vietnam opened its economy. The first notable domestic supermarket chain, Co.opmart, launched its initial store in Ho Chi Minh City in 1996, under the Ho Chi Minh City Commercial Cooperative. This marked a significant shift towards a modern retail format driven by supply and demand. In Hanoi, pioneering efforts by figures like Vu Vinh Phu led to the opening of the city’s first state-owned self-service trade center in November 1995, inspired by retail models in other Asian countries.
Rapid Expansion and International Entry (2000s – Present):
The 2000s saw rapid growth in the supermarket sector. Increased urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and a growing middle class fueled demand for modern retail. This period witnessed the entry of major international players, transforming the retail landscape. Thai giants like Big C (later rebranded to GO! Supermarket under Central Retail) and Metro (now MM Mega Market) established a strong presence. Korean groups like Lotte Mart entered in 2008, followed by Japanese retail conglomerate AEON in 2011, which quickly became known for its spacious shopping malls integrating supermarkets.
Domestic chains also expanded aggressively. WinMart (formerly VinMart, initially part of Vingroup and later acquired by Masan Group) and Bach Hoa Xanh (under Mobile World Investment Corporation) rapidly grew their networks, particularly focusing on convenient mini-supermarket formats to cater to daily shopping needs in high-density urban areas.
Current Landscape and Future Trends of supermarkets in Vietnam:
Today, Vietnam’s supermarket sector is characterized by a mix of strong domestic players and influential foreign investors. While modern retail formats have grown exponentially, traditional markets still account for a significant portion (75-83%) of total market sales, especially for fresh produce, due to their perceived freshness, convenience, and lower prices. However, supermarkets are increasingly adapting by enhancing their fresh food offerings, focusing on quality assurance (e.g., VietGAP certifications for produce), and integrating e-commerce platforms for online shopping and home delivery. The future development of supermarkets in Vietnam will likely see continued expansion, increased integration with digital services, and a focus on sustainability to meet evolving consumer preferences.
See also: High-rated resorts Vietnam 2025 in top 5 best places to go
Top 5 supermarkets in Vietnam
1. AEON Vietnam
- Location: Major cities including Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Binh Duong, Hai Phong, Hue. Typically found within large AEON Mall complexes.
- Highlights:
- Japanese Quality & Standards: Known for their spacious, clean, and well-organized stores, often reflecting Japanese attention to detail and customer service.
- Wide Product Range: Excellent selection of both local and imported goods, particularly Japanese products (food, cosmetics, household items). Good fresh food sections.
- Shopping Mall Experience: As part of AEON Malls, they offer a complete lifestyle hub with food courts, entertainment, and other retail stores, making it a destination for a full day out.
- Customer Service: Generally highly praised for polite and helpful staff.
- Lowlights: Locations are often on the outskirts of city centers, requiring a taxi or ride-hailing app to reach. Prices can be slightly higher than purely local chains.
- Suitable for: Expats, families, those looking for imported goods (especially Japanese), and anyone who appreciates a modern, comfortable, and comprehensive shopping experience.
- Price Range: Mid to High-end for Vietnam.
- Customer Review: Consistently rated highly for cleanliness, product variety, and overall pleasant shopping environment. “Feels like shopping in Japan.”
2. Co.opmart
- Location: Extensive network nationwide, especially strong in Ho Chi Minh City and Southern Vietnam. Many branches are centrally located.
- Highlights:
- Strong Local Focus: The first major domestic supermarket chain, deeply ingrained in Vietnamese daily life. Excellent for finding local Vietnamese products, fresh produce, and household essentials.
- Affordable Prices: Known for competitive pricing and frequent promotions, making it a go-to for budget-conscious shoppers.
- Community Presence: Often has a good understanding of local consumer habits and offers products tailored to Vietnamese tastes.
- Loyalty Programs: Popular membership programs with discounts.
- Lowlights: Can be very crowded, especially during peak hours and weekends. Some older stores might not be as modern or spacious as international chains. English signage and staff may be less common in smaller branches.
- Suitable for: Locals, travelers wanting an authentic Vietnamese supermarket experience, budget shoppers, and those looking for a wide variety of Vietnamese-made goods.
- Price Range: Budget to Mid-range.
- Customer Review: Praised for affordability and wide availability. “My go-to for daily groceries,” “good value for money.”
3. WinMart (formerly VinMart)
- Location: One of the most widespread supermarket chains in Vietnam, with thousands of stores ranging from large supermarkets to smaller WinMart+ convenience stores.
- Highlights:
- Ubiquity and Convenience: Their vast network means there’s almost always a WinMart or WinMart+ nearby, making it extremely convenient for quick shopping.
- Modern & Clean: Generally well-maintained, clean, and organized stores.
- Mix of Local & International: Offers a good balance of Vietnamese and some international brands. Known for good fresh produce sections and often have an organic section.
- Technology Integration: Increasingly incorporating self-checkout and loyalty programs (VinID).
- Lowlights: While widespread, the larger supermarket formats are fewer than the smaller WinMart+ stores. Some stores might lack the premium feel or extensive imported range of AEON or Lotte Mart.
- Suitable for: Daily grocery shopping, quick buys, urban residents, and those who prioritize convenience and a reliable shopping experience.
- Price Range: Mid-range.
- Customer Review: Appreciated for cleanliness, convenience, and consistent quality. “My daily stop,” “always well-stocked.”
4. GO! Supermarket (formerly Big C)
- Location: Large hypermarkets primarily located in major cities and provincial centers.
- Highlights:
- Hypermarket Format: Offers a vast selection of goods beyond just groceries, including electronics, clothing, household items, and sometimes even furniture, making it a one-stop-shop.
- Value for Money: Known for its competitive pricing, frequent discounts, and bulk buying options, attracting many Vietnamese families.
- Food Courts & Entertainment: Many GO! stores are integrated with food courts, arcades, and entertainment zones, making them suitable for family outings.
- Lowlights: Can be extremely busy and crowded, especially on weekends. The store layout can sometimes feel overwhelming due to the sheer volume of products.
- Suitable for: Families, bulk shoppers, and those looking for discounted household goods and a diverse shopping experience beyond just groceries.
- Price Range: Budget to Mid-range.
- Customer Review: Praised for its wide variety of products and good value. Some mention the crowds and occasional pushy sales staff.
5. Lotte Mart supermarkets in Vietnam
- Location: Major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang. Often large, multi-story stores.
- Highlights:
- Korean Influence: Offers a strong selection of Korean products (food, beverages, cosmetics), appealing to K-culture fans and those seeking specific imported items.
- Modern Facilities: Stores are typically large, clean, and well-organized, with a pleasant shopping environment.
- Variety of Goods: Good selection of fresh produce, groceries, and a decent range of household items and some fashion.
- Entertainment Options: Like AEON and GO!, many Lotte Marts include cinemas, food courts, and other amenities.
- Lowlights: Fewer locations compared to domestic chains. Prices can be slightly higher for general groceries compared to local competitors.
- Suitable for: Those looking for Korean imported goods, a comfortable shopping experience, and a good balance of local and international products.
- Price Range: Mid to High-end for Vietnam.
- Customer Review: Positive for its clean environment, good selection of imported goods, and pleasant shopping experience. “My go-to for Korean snacks.”
