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Ebisu opens in Tampa
A popular Japanese convenience store opened its largest location in the world, right here in Tampa. FOX 13 photojournalist Mike Hughes has the story.
TAMPA, Fla. - A massive destination for Japanese snacks, arcade games and anime collectibles officially opened Friday in Tampa Palms.
Ebisu Life Tampa Store
What we know:
Japanese retailer Ebisu Life welcomed shoppers Friday morning to its newest location at 6234 Commerce Palms Drive. The site in the Market Square shopping center covers nearly 21,600 square feet, taking over a former Joann Fabrics store.
The footprint makes it the company's largest store to date, surpassing its Orlando location. Inside, aisles feature imported ramen, candy, skincare, cosmetics, stationery, clothing and household goods.
Anime fans can find plush toys, trading cards, figurines and blind boxes alongside interactive arcade claw machines and Bandai Gashapon toy dispensers.
Japanese Retailer Footprint
The backstory:
Ebisu Life was launched in Osaka, Japan, in 2013 before expanding into the United States.
The company now operates more than 20 stores nationwide across states including Florida, California, Texas, New York, New Jersey, Georgia, Illinois and Maryland. The Tampa location adds to Florida's existing footprint in Orlando and Jacksonville.
Market Square Shopping Center
What's next:
Grand-opening promotions run through Sunday, Aug. 23, while supplies last.
Shoppers who hit specific spending thresholds can receive promotional items such as Japanese snack packs, character merchandise, canvas bags and collectible figures. The store is located at 6234 Commerce Palms Drive in Tampa.
The Source: The information in this story was gathered from Ebisu Life corporate announcements detailing store specifications and grand opening promotional schedules.