Convenience Stores

Unlike many Western countries where convenience stores are prevalent on every street corner and usually standardized, the convenience store business in Vietnam has primarily been informal. However, in recent years, a growing number of convenience chains have emerged in Ho Chi Minh City, the economic hub of Vietnam, to cater to consumer needs.

The introduction of these stores aims to satisfy a segment of customers needing groceries late at night or early in the morning. While traditional retail chains, such as supermarkets and markets, continue to dominate shopping habits in Vietnam, convenience stores have become essential for addressing urgent needs. While the prices at these convenience stores tend to be slightly higher than those in markets, they remain affordable.

Since 2006, several chains of convenience stores have established a presence in Vietnam, with most located in Ho Chi Minh City. The three most popular chains are Shop & Go, Circle K, and Family Mart.

Shop & Go

Shop & Go was founded in 2005 at 74A1 Hai Ba Trung Street, District 1. As of 2025, the chain has expanded to over 100 stores across the country. It offers a diverse range of products, including alcoholic beverages, snacks, groceries, and newspapers. Additionally, Shop & Go provides services such as phone cards and ATMs. Each store stocks around 2,500 products, providing both local and imported goods, making it a suitable option for customers seeking foreign products.

Photo : vietnambiz.vn

Here is a list of some Shop & Go locations in Ho Chi Minh City:

74A1 Hai Ba Trung Street, District 1
254 Nguyen Cong Tru Street, District 1
152B Tran Hung Dao Street, District 1
161 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, District 1
194 Bui Vien Street, District 1

For more information about other locations, visit: http://www.shopngo.com.vn

Circle K

The American convenience store franchise Circle K entered the Vietnamese market in 2009 through GR International. In addition to Vietnam, Circle K has a significant presence in China, Hong Kong, Japan, and Indonesia. Recognizing the potential of Vietnam's retail market, GR International aims to provide customers with a modern shopping experience beyond the traditional supermarket.

Photo : circle.com.vn

Circle K features a wide array of products, including snacks, beverages, personal care items, stationery, and fast food, with some American brands available in-store.

Here are some Circle K locations in Ho Chi Minh City:

44 Lê Lai, District 1
95 Lê Thành Tôn, District 1
139 Bùi Viện, District 1
15B1 Lê Thành Tôn, District 1
251 Đề Thám, Phạm Ngũ Lão, District 1

Family Mart

Family Mart, a Japanese convenience store franchise, commenced operations in Vietnam in December 2009. Within two years, it expanded to 18 stores, which, while fewer than Shop & Go’s locations, offer unique competitive advantages rooted in its Japanese origins. Customers are drawn to Family Mart for its wide selection of Asian cuisine, including favorites like rice balls and steamed buns, along with a strong emphasis on hygiene and nutrition. Family Mart also features services such as train and movie ticket sales and ATMs.

Photo : nhanlucnganhluat.vn