Wichita, KS — Shoppers visiting the former El Rio Bravo Supermarkets in Wichita may have already noticed a new name and several big changes. The two stores, located at 21st and Amidon and Pawnee and Seneca, have officially been rebranded as Mi Super Mercado Baratisimo, marking the launch of a new Hispanic supermarket chain in the region.
According to company officials, the brand plans to open a third Wichita store on the east side early next year, as well as a new location in Oklahoma City before that.
“It’s a new chain that we want to grow,” said COO Guillermo Washington.
Experienced Leadership Behind the New Brand
The leadership team of Mi Super Mercado Baratisimo brings decades of experience in Hispanic grocery retail. Washington and CEO Salah Nafal, both based in Oklahoma City, have deep roots in the supermarket industry.
Nafal and his family previously operated El Rancho Supermercado, a chain of about 30 stores in Texas, before selling it a few years ago. Washington also worked for El Rancho and formerly oversaw more than 400 Walmart stores in Mexico.
“We come from the industry,” Washington explained. “We’re going to standardize all of the processes so you can have the same quality every day.”
As reported by The Wichita Eagle, the new ownership aims to elevate both quality and affordability while keeping a strong connection to the local community.
A Focus on Affordability and Quality
For now, store signs simply read “Mi Super Mercado,” but Washington confirmed that the word “Baratisimo” — meaning very cheap in English — will soon be added to highlight the company’s emphasis on low prices.
“We are focused on reducing prices for the community so the community can afford more items,” Washington said.
He added that while El Rio Bravo had many strengths, Mi Super Mercado Baratisimo is implementing major upgrades in facilities, quality standards, and product offerings.
Store Upgrades and Improvements
Customers can already see the difference inside the remodeled stores. New freezers, refrigerators, and meat counters have been installed, and the stores are now sourcing very fresh meat daily.
Each location also features new tortilla machines for corn and flour tortillas, as well as freshly baked pastries and bread every morning and afternoon.
Behind the scenes, both stores have received new air conditioning systems and other operational upgrades to improve the shopping experience.
The stores are open 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, every day of the year.
“That’s important,” Washington said. “The goal with Mi Super Mercado Baratisimo is to improve the quality of life for Wichitans every day.”
Community Orientation and Expansion Plans
Washington emphasized that the new chain intends to be community-oriented, supporting Wichita residents through events, outreach programs, and local partnerships.
“We saw an opportunity in Wichita,” he said. “We like the locations of the stores, and we like the community.”
Partner Hakim Halum, formerly with Rio Bravo, said the sale made sense as his group shifts focus toward expansion around the Kansas City area.
Though the Wichita stores are already open, Washington said grand opening celebrations will be held soon for both locations. He also expects to acquire an east-side property within the next month, with an opening projected a few months later.
Mi Super Mercado Baratisimo’s entry marks a new chapter for Wichita’s growing Hispanic grocery market — one built on experience, affordability, and community connection.
What do you think of Mi Super Mercado Baratisimo’s arrival and expansion in Wichita? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
