Beloved grocer faces eviction

Sue's Produce Market in Rittenhouse needs to raise $40,000 after falling behind on rent payments at its 114 S. 18th St. location.

GoFundMe exceeds expectations

Owner James Shin launched a fundraising campaign that has raised over $15,000 from more than 300 people in less than a week.

“I just didn't think of it to this extreme. It definitely exceeded my expectations of how much love that we do get from our customers.”

Local businesses join the fight

Rittenhouse Row is urging donations, and Her Place Supper Club plans a Korean-inspired dinner on Oct. 16 with all proceeds going to Sue's.

“I cannot imagine our neighborhood without this treasure so we are going to do what we know how to do and cook dinner.”

Business has slowed in recent years

Rising costs for produce, utilities, and labor have squeezed the market. Tina often runs the Rittenhouse store alone while James oversees their Society Hill location.

Started with a fruit cart in 1976

James Shin's great aunt Sue began selling fruit from a cart on 18th and Walnut streets. The business grew and moved to its current storefront in 2001.

Family took over in 2012

James Shin and his mother Tina assumed ownership of the market, continuing the family tradition that has spanned nearly 50 years.

Tina's homemade Korean dishes

Tina expanded offerings to include fresh-pressed juice, homemade kimchi, and kimbap. She wakes at 2 a.m. to prepare food before working 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

“Nobody else knows how to do it except her. She keeps pushing herself, even when she's not feeling well.”

A mother's unwavering commitment

Tina, 63, refuses to take days off even when unwell. Her dedication motivated James to launch the fundraising campaign to support her.

Not the first financial struggle

Sue's has faced money troubles before, but James hopes this campaign will help the store recover and attract new customers.

Stories from 50 years of customers

Since going public with their challenges, James has heard from longtime customers sharing memories and offering support, revealing the store's deep community impact.

Philadelphia's community spirit shines

The outpouring of support reminds James what makes Philadelphia special: neighbors coming together in times of need.

“That's what makes the community of Philadelphia so great. In a time of need, everyone gets together and helps support.”