Houston Welcomes its First Ever Black-Owned Supermarket

District Market Green Grocer was converted from the city‘s District 1960 Nightclub, which Robert Thomas ran for five years prior to the covid-19 pandemic. He then began converting the space into a 4,000 square foot supermarket.

According to FOX 26 Houston, the market also features products from Black-owned companies.

Thomas told reporters that he pushed for the market because “We don’t have any black supermarkets that I know of.” Customers can find “fruit, vegetables, eggs, vegan meals for the vegan community” at the store located on Cypress Creek Parkway near TC Jester.

He added, “We have black-owned washing powder, spices, herbs, and sauces.”

Currently, Thomas is working with more than 30 vendors to make sure his shoppers can purchase quality products.

One of the many businesses that have partnered with Thomas is Arousing Aromas, which sells 100% coconut soy candles. “We have enticing essentials bath salts. We also have wax warmers, wax melts, and everything is handmade here in Houston,” co-owner Sparkle Johnson said.

Thomas claims it was difficult for vendors to get their products on shelves in the past. Malcolm Wilson, who owns Daranne‘s, a restaurant that specializes in soul food, expressed, “It has been a minute.” He added, “We‘ve been in the business for about 20 years.”