News Summary
Trader Joe’s has announced plans to open its second location in Costa Mesa at the site of the former 99 Cents Only Store on Harbor Blvd. Although the exact opening date hasn’t been confirmed, the new store will serve the growing demand for its specialty grocery items. This move is part of Trader Joe’s expansion strategy across California, with the new store located just two miles north of the existing location. Community anticipation continues as the brand solidifies its presence in the area.
Costa Mesa – Trader Joe’s has confirmed that it will be opening its second location in Costa Mesa at the former 99 Cents Only Store site located at 2180 Harbor Blvd. This announcement comes after months of speculation, as the grocery chain had previously not confirmed the details of the location amid local anticipation. The new store will be about 2 miles north of the existing Trader Joe’s located at 640 W. 17th St.
While the exact opening date for the new Costa Mesa location has not yet been set, the company typically reveals the details a week prior to the official opening. Trader Joe’s is renowned for its unique assortment of specialty grocery items and has garnered a significant following since its establishment. The new store in Costa Mesa is part of Trader Joe’s ongoing expansion, which includes several new locations throughout California and other states.
Background on Trader Joe’s
Trader Joe’s is a specialty grocery store chain based in Monrovia, California, known for its wide array of quality products, often at affordable prices. The brand has cultivated a loyal customer base due to its distinct shopping experience and emphasis on customer service. The pending opening in Costa Mesa aims to cater to the growing demand for its products in the area, reflecting the company’s strategy to increase its footprint in regions where they are well-received.
Other Local News
In addition to the Trader Joe’s announcement, UC Irvine has made headlines with a significant $15 million donation from the Brunson Foundation dedicated to vision research. This funding will help support the Center for Translational Vision Research, now renamed the Brunson Center for Translational Vision Research, to advance research into treatments and cures for blinding diseases. A portion of the donation will also go towards constructing the Falling Leaves Foundation Medical Innovation Building.
Moreover, Miracles for Kids, a local nonprofit organization, recently engaged volunteers to assemble and distribute over 1,000 backpacks filled with essential school supplies to families impacted by financial hardships across Southern and Northern California. Their Back to School Basket of Miracles program aimed to assist 450 families this year by providing not only school supplies but also fresh produce. This charitable effort witnessed contributions from various local businesses, including Ingardia Bros. Produce Inc., Vessel Bags, and U Brands.
Leadership Changes
In organizational news, Judy Contino has been appointed as the new vice president of people and culture for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County & the Inland Empire. Additionally, Lutheran Social Services of Southern California has elected four new board members to enhance their governance structure. The newly appointed members are Damon L. Alexander, Danón R. Carter, Laura L. Steele, and Tomashu Kenyatta Jones.
Similarly, Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County added new board members, including Helena Ferrari, Michael McGee, Gordon Roth, Garett Sleichter, and An Tran. Each member will serve a three-year term, contributing to the Food Bank’s mission of alleviating hunger in Orange County.
These developments reflect the ongoing community engagements and commitments by various organizations to improve the quality of life in the Costa Mesa area. The anticipation surrounding Trader Joe’s new location signifies a growing interest in specialty grocery shopping among residents, while simultaneous community efforts highlight the region’s focus on supporting local families and health initiatives.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tustin Police Make Significant Drug Arrest in Maserati
Orange Coast College Players Achieve Major League Success
Mixed Outlook for Orange County’s Engineering Firms
Woman Arrested for Grocery Store Theft in Irvine
Woman Arrested for Stealing $1,000 in Dietary Supplements
Southern California’s Summer Festivities: Concerts, Art Festivals, and Surf Competitions
Retail Theft Suspect Arrested in Baldwin Park
California Businesses Transforming Retail and Dining Landscape
Trader Joe’s to Open Second Location in Costa Mesa
Additional Resources
- OC Register: Trader Joe’s Confirms New Costa Mesa Location
- Democrat & Chronicle: Trader Joe’s Opening in Williamsville, NY
- KTLA: Trader Joe’s Adds New Locations
- Martha Stewart: Trader Joe’s Announces Seven New Stores
- Syracuse: Trader Joe’s Opening New Stores in 7 States
- Wikipedia: Trader Joe’s
- Google Search: Trader Joe’s News
- Google Scholar: Trader Joe’s
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Trader Joe’s
- Google News: Trader Joe’s Expansion

Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.