New Seasons Market, the U.S. organic grocery chain owned by South Korea’s E-Mart, will relocate its corporate headquarters this November, signaling a broader restructuring as the company looks to accelerate its North American expansion.
The grocer announced on Aug. 20 that it will move out of its longtime office on Southeast Stark Street and relocate to the Skylight Building at the Electric Blocks campus on Southeast Clay Street in early November.
The new space spans about 32,000 square feet, featuring exposed cross-laminated timber construction, rooftop solar panels, and sustainable design elements. The campus also includes outdoor terraces, parking, and bicycle storage for employees.
“This new office reflects who we are as a brand and serves as a launchpad for growth,” said Dave Kauder, Senior Vice President of Retail at New Seasons Market. “Our organization is preparing for the next chapter.”
Industry observers say the headquarters move goes beyond a simple address change. Following a CEO transition in January, the relocation is seen as part of a strategy to improve operational efficiency and accelerate store openings. The move aligns with E-Mart parent company Shinsegae Group Chairman Chung Yong-jin’s push to grow the business globally.
The relocation has also been welcomed locally. The Central Eastside Industrial Council called the move a positive momentum boost for Portland’s economy and expects New Seasons to deepen its ties with the community.
New Seasons currently operates 22 stores across Oregon and Washington with about 2,700 employees. E-Mart’s U.S. operations surpassed $1.5 billion in revenue in 2023. With the new headquarters, the company aims to strengthen its foundation and ramp up new store expansion across North America.
