Crowds pack into Big Asia supermarket as brand new mega store opens in Westcourt

Shoppers have lined up around the block to be some of the first to explore the international delights of a newly-opened, super-sized Asian grocery store.

Shoppers have lined up around the block to be among the first to explore the international delights of Westcourt’s new super-sized Asian grocery store.

Big Asia Supermarket celebrated the grand opening of its new supermarket at 486 Mulgrave Road on Saturday.

The store was opened with a ceremonial performance by lion dancers, said to bring good fortune, while firecrackers were let off to scare away evil spirits.

Their previous store opened in 2015, but the local owners made the decision to build a new store in order to better serve those in Cairns who love Asian food.

Supervisor Finny Sirisawat said staff were shocked by the number of people who turned out for the grand opening.

“We are very excited to see so many people in the store discovering the greater range we have on offer,” she said.

Big Asia Supermarket has opened a brand new, purpose built store with an expanded offering of Asian foods, and for the first time, alcohol. Big Asia Supermarket supervisor Finny Sirisawat showcases the huge variety of products on offer. Picture: Brendan Radke

“It’s more than Maggi, its amazing food and quality products that bring a taste of home for some and give people a chance to try new things.

“The bigger store has allowed us to have more premium products like our Wagyu beef and barbecue meats and we know have a license to sell Asian alcohols like Japanese sake and Korean soju.”

Eager and curious shoppers lined up around the block as the ribbon was cut before they were let loose in the aisles to explore the wide range of unique and quality products and get a taste of some ingredients from Tropical Catering, who were preparing fresh dishes on site.

SJ Jaya took the chance to explore the new store and get some of their favourite snacks that reminded them of their old home in Bali.

“We were in line for about half an hour to get to the checkout but it is all worth it to get a taste of home and get some ingredients that are hard to get anywhere else,” Mr Jaya said.

Big Asia Supermarket has opened a brand new, purpose built store with an expanded offering of Asian foods, and for the first time, alcohol. Indonesian customers Tika Jaya, Eve Setiawan, Skye Jaya, 3, and SJ Jaya queued for 30 minutes to buy some traditional Balinese food. Picture: Brendan Radke

“We used to shop at the old store because it was the only place we could get some tropical ingredients that we use in our dishes, but now the store is so much bigger it's a game changer.

“There are way more options, we are spoiled for choice, we are thrilled.

“We like a lot of hot and spicy food and there are just some ingredients we need for those home town dishes we love, so its great to be able to get a taste of home.”

Originally published as Crowds pack into Big Asia supermarket as brand new mega store opens in Westcourt