**99 Ranch Market** is the **largest Asian supermarket chain in the United States**, operating as a leader in serving Asian American communities and mainstream consumers seeking authentic Asian products and foods.[1][4] ## History and Founding 99 Ranch Market was established in 1984 by **Roger Chen**, a Taiwanese immigrant who arrived in California from Taichung, Taiwan.[1][5] Chen opened the first store in Westminster, California, just outside Los Angeles, motivated by a personal mission: he missed the authentic flavors, familiar settings, and specialty goods from his homeland.[1] The name "99 Ranch Market" carries cultural significance—in Mandarin, "99" is a homophone for longevity and good fortune, while "ranch" symbolizes freshness and Chen's promise to deliver the freshest products.[1] ## Growth and Expansion The first store's success was immediate, leading to rapid expansion.[6] A second location opened in Montabello in 1988, followed by a pivotal third location in Rowland Heights in 1989, which marked a turning point for the brand.[5] The company expanded strategically across the United States, with franchise locations established in Atlanta (1993), Las Vegas (1995), Phoenix (1997), and subsequent locations in Texas, Oregon, Virginia, and Arizona.[2] ## Current Operations Today, 99 Ranch Market operates **54-58 stores across 10-11 states**, including California, Texas, Nevada, Oregon, New Jersey, Maryland, Washington, and Virginia.[1][4] Each store carries over 15,000 unique product items sourced locally and internationally.[1] The company is headquartered in Buena Park and is now led by second-generation leadership, including CEO **Alice Chen** and Chairman **Jonson Chen**, Roger's children.[5]