16 • November / December 2026• abasto.com •NEWS BY HERNANDO RAMÍREZ-SANTOS N orthgate González Market will transform one of its ol- dest neighborhood stores into a full- fledged cultural destination. The Anaheim-based chain announced that it will convert its former La Ha- bra store into a new Mercado Gon- zález, its immersive store concept inspired by Mexican markets. The renovated store will combine the convenience of everyday shop- ping with Mexican food, artisanal products, live entertainment, and spaces for community gatherings. A Family-Owned Store, Reinvented The La Habra store has served the community for decades. Northgate says it has supported local partners for years, including Our Lady of Gua- dalupe Church, The Gary Center, La Habra and Sonora High Schools, and the Boys & Girls Club of La Habra. Now, that store is set to undergo a major renovation. “Mercado González is more than a supermarket; it’s where the table comes to life,” said Oscar González, co-president of Northgate. He added that the concept aims to celebrate the regional flavors of Mexico, without losing the warmth and hospitality as- sociated with Mexican culture. Customers will continue to find the fresh produce, quality meats, and authentic ingredients for which Nor- thgate is known, the company noted. But the new format adds a complete- ly different experience. Inspired by a growing concept The La Habra project follows the model of the flagship Merca- do González in Costa Mesa. That 70,000-square-foot store opened in November 2023 and quickly became a regional destination. The Costa Mesa market features vi- brant murals by Mexican artist Clau- dio Limón, more than 20 food stalls, artisanal products, community kit- chens, live music, a bar, and lounge areas where customers can gather. La Habra will follow a similar plan. According to the company, visitors will find colorful murals, artisanal details, distinctive architecture, and authentic Mexican cuisine throu- ghout the store. Northgate Brings Its Mercado González to La Habra What Will Be Inside the New Mercado The family-owned business detailed several features plan- ned for La Habra: Food Stalls: Vendors will in- clude Taquería Los Mesquites, Carnitas Don Miguel, Guisados Las Cazuelas, Rosticería Los 13 Pollos, and Cevichería El Pa- riente, among others. El Moro Churrería: The re- nowned churrería from Mexico City returns with its signature churros and hot chocolate. Entre Nos Bar: An indoor spa- ce offering Mexican beers, craft cocktails, mezcal, and tequila, as well as live entertainment. Stage and Patio: A new out- door area will host live music and community programming. Handicrafts and Candy Shop: Customers can explo- re handmade Mexican crafts, gifts, and traditional sweets. The Mercado González con- cept represents a strategic shift for the chain. In La Habra, Northgate is transforming an existing location into an expe- rience center. This approach allows it to modernize its pre- sence without losing its roots in longstanding communities. In an interview with Abas- to Media, Óscar González, co-president of Northgate González Markets, said that the Mercado’s goal is to recrea- te an authentic market like those found throughout Latin America, featuring food stalls and a vibrant cultural atmos- phere. La Habra is now joining this expanding format.