By Emmanuel T. Erediano
emmanuel@mvariety.com
Variety News Staff
ALMOST two months after it ceased operations on Oct. 31, 2025, the Triple J store on Beach Road in Chalan Kanoa is back.
The supermarket formerly known as Payless Super Fresh & Truckload, has now reopened as Triple J Fresh Market, which, General Manager Charles V. Cepeda said, has scaled down to about one-third the size of its previous operation. Store hours will be from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays.
He told reporters during the soft opening on Friday that there was a strong demand from loyal customers. As a result, the Triple J Saipan Inc. Board of Directors and Founder & Chairman Robert H. Jones decided to make available again the items that customers have been asking for. These include fresh produce from Tinian, fresh produce from the U.S. mainland, dairy products including a variety of cheeses customers have been looking for, chilled meats, and, of course, the island’s favorite: Certified Angus Beef.
They also brought back grab-and-go food items, such as freshly made sandwiches, hot lunches, and rotisserie chicken.
Customers who still have balances on their loyalty cards can redeem their points, Cepeda said.
Fresh Market, however, has yet to decide on whether to continue the loyalty program due to system challenges. This means new purchases may not earn points. The store is looking into the introduction of a different program, which he hopes will be decided soon.
To their loyal customers, Cepeda said: “Thank you for the great pressure to make us return. We listened to you, and now we are here. The board and Bob Jones listened to you, so we are open for business and we ask you to come in.”
Andrea Sablan, a regular customer, said she is happy the Triple J store is back. It was where she always bought fresh produce — especially vegetables — and meats.
Emmanuel “Arnold” Erediano has a bachelor of science degree in Journalism. He started his career as police beat reporter. Loves to cook. Eats death threats for breakfast.
