(from left) Ong, Lee, Yap and Cheah at the signing ceremony.

KEDAH:  Imperio Group and GCH Retail (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd announced a landmark partnership to introduce the first Cold Storage supermarket in Kedah. The new outlet will be located at Tenz Emporium, a retail destination housed within the restored Tai Kuan building, marking a significant milestone in Alor Setar’s urban renewal efforts.

The collaboration combines Cold Storage’s reputation for freshness and quality with Imperio Group’s vision for The Tenz, a mixed-use development designed around community-centred living.

The Tenz is being developed as Kedah’s first fully integrated, walkable neighbourhood, featuring residential, hospitality and commercial components within a green, connected precinct. The master plan includes Vivre Residences, Vaycay Suites and Tenz Commons, alongside a 154-room Ibis Styles hotel operated by the Accor Group that features a six-storey podium across three contemporary towers. 

Scheduled for completion in 2028, the Ibis Styles will be the first international hotel chain in Alor Setar, expected to enhance the city’s appeal to both business and leisure travellers.

At street level, the former Tai Kuan building originally opened in 1957 as one of Alor Setar’s most recognisable cinemas and has been carefully restored and reimagined as Tenz Emporium. The project retains the heritage facade while introducing a modern grocery and retail experience.

Cold Storage will anchor this first phase of The Tenz, offering residents and visitors convenient access to fresh produce, daily essentials and premium imported goods. A landscaped walkway will link the supermarket directly to Vivre Residences and the wider precinct, supporting the idea of 15-minute living, where essential services and amenities are within easy reach.

Beyond convenience, the partnership is designed to uplift Alor Setar by restoring a heritage icon and curating best-in-class operators (GCH Retail). Imperio Group aims to draw new footfall to the city centre and offer families a better-quality daily experience at their doorstep. Tenz Emporium is targeted for handover before Chinese New Year 2026, opening the doors to the first chapter of The Tenz and setting the tone for the phases to follow.

Present at the signing were Imperio Group directors Ong Hung Heng and Lee Woei Nen, GCH retail director Datuk Gary Yap and GCH retail chief executive officer Tiger Cheah.

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