Editor's note: The story has been updated with a comment from a Trader Joe's representative. The story has also been updated to correctly describe the other tenants opening in the same phase of University Commons.

Local residents will have a new grocery store option to choose from, with Trader Joe’s officials announcing a new store heading to Sugar Land.

The details

Trader Joe's aims to open this year off University Boulevard, according to a March 11 announcement on its website.

The California-based grocer is known for its Trader Joe’s-branded products, which include specialty treats, frozen meals and everyday items.

The backstory

Trader Joe’s first premiered in Pasadena, California, in 1967, and the business has grown to include more than 440 stores nationwide, according to the website.

What else

The grocer will take the spot formerly held by Sprouts Farmers Market, which closed its location in the University Commons shopping development in April 2023.

Meanwhile, developer Vista Equity Group wrapped up construction on the final phase of the shopping center this year, Community Impact reported. Aside from Trader Joe’s, other incoming tenants in that phase of the development include:

• Yogurtland
• Bell Salon

Vista Equity Group officials declined to comment at this time.

Quote of note

A specific opening date isn't available, a Trader Joe's spokesperson said in a March 13 emailed statement. The spokesperson said company staff believes the Sugar Land community and the store's location are a great fit for the company.

"We look forward to providing our customers outstanding value in the form of the best quality products at the best everyday prices," the spokesperson said in an email.

• Opening 2024
• 13550 University Blvd., Sugar Land
• www.traderjoes.com