Huge crowds line up for opening of Toronto's first Panda Mart

Crowds of shoppers descended on Toronto's first Panda Mart location on its opening weekend, queueing up to get their hands on the newest discount lifestyle and home goods items.

Footage captured over the weekend shows long lines snaking from the entrance, extending well into the parking lot, and store aisles completely packed with shoppers for the store's debut.

So, what's all the hype about? For the unversed, Panda Mart opened its first Canadian and North American location in Toronto on Sept. 26, to much fanfare.

The mammoth South Africa-based discount retailer offers a wide range of goods, including furniture, household items, food, beauty products, and more.

@mopemope10 not really temu or SHEIN on crack but still a very interesting store #pandamart #toronto #fyp #foryoupage ♬ WE CANNOT ESCAPE WE CANNOT COME OUT - Emile Morgan

Opening-day traffic and the long lines suggest strong demand for the first Canadian Panda Mart. Some shoppers were seen with their carts filled completely to the brim with goods.

However, others may prefer waiting until the crowds die down. One shopper commented that it took them 90 minutes just to get inside, with an additional 45 minutes at the check-out counter. 

@katvvuvv thought I was gonna have a fun time at the new panda mart… not today friends 💀😵 #thingstodo #toronto #pandamart #departmentstore #lifestyle ♬ The Rake Hornpipe - Robert Alexander White

Panda Mart is located at 768 Warden Ave.