T&T Supermarket Set to Transform Former Hudson’s Bay Space at CF Markville

Markham, Ontario – A new chapter is about to unfold at CF Markville. The once‑busy Hudson’s Bay department store, which has been a fixture of the mall for decades, will make way for a sprawling T&T Supermarket. When the doors finally swing open in 2028, shoppers will be stepping into what is expected to be the largest Asian grocery outlet not only in Markham, but in the whole province.

According to a report from BlogTO, T&T’s existing store in Unionville – a 50,000‑square‑foot space that has served the community for 14 years – is packing its boxes and moving down to the lower level of the former Hudson’s Bay footprint. The new location will span roughly 68,000 sq ft., a substantial upgrade that promises a broader assortment of products, fresh‑prepared foods, and a more expansive dining area.

“Markham has been a key part of T&T’s story, and we see tremendous opportunity to continue investing in this community,” said Tina Lee, CEO of the Vancouver‑based, Loblaw‑owned chain. “Unionville has been a wonderful home for us, and we’re proud of everything we’ve built together with our colleagues and customers. As our customers’ needs continue to grow, this bigger store at CF Markville will strengthen our presence, create an even better experience, and bring more jobs to the local community.”

Lee’s remarks echo a sentiment shared by many local residents who have grown up with T&T’s aisles of Asian staples. “I’ve been shopping there for years, and the idea of a larger store with more variety is really exciting,” said longtime Unionville customer Michael Cheng, who hopes the new market will finally carry his favorite imported snacks.

Cadillac Fairview, the property group that owns CF Markville, is equally enthusiastic. “Welcoming the largest Asian grocery store in Markham to our centre is a major milestone,” said Sal Iacono, CEO of Cadillac Fairview. “We’re excited to see the energy this new destination will bring to our guests and the community.”

For T&T, the Markville venue will be its 18th Ontario location. The chain is also gearing up to open a 66,000‑sq‑ft. store at RioCan’s Empress shopping centre in North York next month, which will temporarily hold the title of the province’s biggest T&T location until the Markville flagship debuts.

Beyond the sheer size, the move signals a broader shift in retail dynamics. As traditional department stores like Hudson’s Bay downsize, specialty retailers such as T&T are stepping into the void, offering niche products that draw diverse shoppers. The conversion also underscores the growing demand for Asian food items across Canada, a trend that has only accelerated in recent years.

Construction is slated to begin later this year, with the demolition of the remaining Hudson’s Bay interior and the build‑out of the new supermarket expected to create hundreds of construction jobs. Once the doors open, T&T anticipates hiring additional staff to staff the expanded floor plan – a boost for the local employment market.

All eyes will be on CF Markville when the grand opening finally arrives. If history is any guide, the new T&T will quickly become a bustling hub for food lovers, families, and anyone looking for a taste of home—or perhaps a new flavor they’ve never tried before.