GRAND PRARIE – The Hong Kong Market place in Grand Prairie marked its 37th anniversary with a celebration of its customers with a blend of sales, delectable cuisine, and entertaining festivities.
From Oct. 20 to Oct. 22, visitors experienced the rich and diverse culture of many different Asian countries.
The celebration featured authentic traditional street food from far eastern countries and live performances such as lion dancing, a show of martial arts, and many more.
Attending events at HKMKT in Asia Times Square is always free of charge and seeks to provide a fun-filled atmosphere for all in attendance.
Built In 1985, HKMKT sought to share specialty items from Hong Kong, China, and Vietnam and boasts groceries and goods from Japan, Korea, Africa, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, and other Far East countries.
Having begun as a small market in the Grand Prairie and Arlington area and boasting two locations, HKMKT is now one of the largest Asian grocery stores in the D/FW Metroplex.
“We just continue to grow, and we continue to grow thankfully because of the community that we serve,” said Matthew Loh, CEO of Asia Times Square.
“There was a lack of Asian grocery stores in the Arlington area back then, and as the Asian population continued to grow, we grew,” said Loh.
Loh explained that overwhelming support from non-Asian communities shopping at HKMKT helped continue the growth of the store.
“What really actually exploded for our grocery store is the tremendous support of non Asians. I think we live in such a diverse community that is very beneficial and we’re thankful to be in this Dallas/ Fort Worth community where people just love to enjoy food,” Loh explained.
“Hong Kong market place wouldn’t be where we are without the love and support from our community and truly our anniversary is an event that we just want to express our extreme gratitude to our customers. They are the ones who put us where we are, what we can become, how we became, and what we are. We are thankful to the community,” said Loh.
“As a business owner, we try to cater to everybody. We are very inclusive and that’s why Asia Times Square is very inclusive. We want to be the destination connecting cultures and communities.”