What's Happening?
Resco Food Service, often dubbed the 'Asian Costco,' has emerged as a distinctive grocery shopping destination in Southern California. Located in the City of Industry, east of Los Angeles, Resco opened its doors in January 2024 and has since attracted
attention for its unique offerings. The store specializes in Asian foods and ingredients, stocking around 5,000 items from countries such as China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. Unlike traditional Costco stores, Resco does not require a membership for shopping, although an optional $20 annual membership is available for additional discounts. The store's layout and operations resemble those of a typical warehouse store, with products stacked on pallets and heavy-duty shelving, and it offers food samples to shoppers.
Why It's Important?
Resco Food Service's emergence highlights a growing demand for diverse and culturally specific grocery options in the U.S. market. By catering to Asian communities and those interested in Asian cuisine, Resco fills a niche that traditional grocery stores may not fully address. This development reflects broader trends in consumer preferences towards more diverse and international food options. Additionally, Resco's model of not requiring a membership could attract a wider customer base, potentially influencing other warehouse-style retailers to reconsider their membership policies. The store's success could encourage similar ventures, promoting cultural diversity in the retail sector.