Dollar General is set to close nearly 100 stores across the nation, including 96 Dollar General locations and 45 Popshelf stores, during the first quarter of 2025. This decision comes as part of the company’s strategy to strengthen its business foundation, according to Todd Vasos, the chief executive officer of Dollar General.
In a report released this month, Vasos stated, "As we look to build on the substantial progress we made on our Back to Basics work in fiscal 2024, we believe this review was appropriate to further strengthen the foundation of our business." He emphasized that while the number of closures represents less than one percent of the overall store base, it is a necessary step to better serve their customers and communities.
Dollar General operates over 20,000 stores, including Dollar General, DG Market, DGX, and Popshelf, in 48 states. The closures will not only affect the Dollar General locations but also the Popshelf stores, a relatively new retail concept introduced by the company in October 2020. Popshelf aims to provide a fun and affordable shopping experience focusing on seasonal and home decor, cleaning supplies, and party goods.
Despite the planned closures, Dollar General has ambitious plans for the Popshelf concept. In 2021, the company announced intentions to open approximately 1,000 Popshelf stores by the end of the 2025 fiscal year, due to its growing popularity. Currently, there are more than 220 Popshelf locations across 21 states, but after the closures, the chain will have about 175 remaining stores. Notably, there are no Popshelf locations in New York.
The specific locations of the 96 Dollar General and 45 Popshelf stores that will close have not yet been disclosed, as reported by USA TODAY. However, Dollar General has a significant presence in New York, including hundreds of stores throughout the state.
In the Rochester area alone, Dollar General operates several stores, including: 252 E. Main St., 822 Lake Ave., 529 Monroe Ave., and 1004 Culver Road. Other locations include 1900 S. Clinton Ave. in Brighton, 3240 Chili Ave. in Chili, and multiple stores in Gates and Greece.
Meanwhile, in the Binghamton area, Dollar General also maintains a strong footprint. The stores that remain open include: 311 Main St., Afton; 7146 State Route 434, Apalachin; 1749 State Route 12, Binghamton; 2225 Airport Road, Binghamton; and several others across the region.
Interestingly, the Dollar General store on Main Street in Binghamton was condemned in July 2024 and has since closed permanently. This closure adds to the ongoing changes within the company as it reassesses its store locations and business strategies.
As the retail landscape continues to evolve, Dollar General’s decision to close stores reflects broader trends in the industry. Companies are increasingly focusing on optimizing their operations and ensuring they remain competitive in an ever-changing market.
With the ongoing closures, customers and communities are left wondering how these changes will affect their shopping habits and access to affordable goods. Dollar General’s commitment to its customers remains evident, as Vasos noted that these decisions are aimed at better positioning the company to serve its clientele.
As Dollar General navigates these changes, it will be crucial for the company to communicate effectively with its customers about the closures and any potential impacts on service and product availability.
In summary, Dollar General’s announcement of nearly 100 store closures highlights the company’s ongoing adaptation to the retail market. While the closures may seem significant, they represent a small fraction of the overall store base, indicating a strategic move rather than a sign of distress. As the company continues to develop its Popshelf concept and adjust its store portfolio, customers will be watching closely to see how these changes unfold.
