Everything-for-$1 thrift stores have become the leading chains in the U.S.

The total number of Dollar Tree stores in the U.S. has grown to more than 34,000.

Several factors that have influenced the development of traditional retail trade in the U.S. have led to an increase in the influence of retail chains which specialize in the sale of goods for $1. Analysts say that fixed-price discounters could grow faster than all other formats during the recession. 

By 2020, the total number of “one-dollar” stores in the U.S. has increased to more than 34,000. The market leaders – Dollar General, Dollar Tree, and Family Dollar – accounted for nearly half of all retail store openings in the country. Other fast-growing players are 99 Cents Only Stores and Five Below. 

At the same time, amid the rapid growth of fixed-price stores, the amount of criticism that retailers receive has also increased. The media is increasingly mentioning opponents of the discounter format, who point out that opening in poor areas limits customer access to fresh products, writes CNBC. 

At the same time, it is noted that margins in the fixed-price store segment are declining amid high inflation and supply problems. In particular, Family Dollar, Dollar Tree, and Dollar General have seen their margins fall since the second quarter of 2021. Nevertheless, despite the challenges, Dollar One retailers can contain prices for consumers, and analysts agree that there are no risks for slackening growth in the current environment.