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Comment by RappingBoomer | Hacker News Reader

i see dollar tree going broke...they used to sell groceries and sundry goods cheaper than the big stores...now they are more expensive with a lot of item as compared to the bigger stores...convenience stores with gas pumps can get away with that--everyone needs gas...but now that dollar store is no longer cheaper than the big stores, and have no gas pumps, what is the attraction?

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If you are close to a bigger store, then you have a choice. In lots of the US, the closest grocery and department store could be quite a ways away. They are growing like crazy in these areas. I agree that they are becoming a mix of a grocery store, convenience store and Wal-Mart but I think that is what the rural markets want. If they need something special, that can be saved for a special trip to "town".

Hard to understate this. There are rural areas where there's a Dollar Tree in every little town, but you have to drive 1-2 hours to the nearest WalMart—and further to the nearest Anything Else Worth Shopping At.

Dollar General is more common here, which is slightly better — the prices are slightly higher and some have produce etc.

The company also owns the Family Dollar chain and has been converting some stores into dual brands. Those conversions might increase as it gives the company a way to maintain both brands but not be limited by the $1 (or $1.25) price point.

Family Dollar hasn't sold things at a dollar price point in years. They're basically big convenience stores with makeup, clothing, and toiletries sections.

Are you thinking Dollar General? No Dollar Tree I've been in had groceries--maybe candy, but usually it's things like cheap plastic toys, paper plates/plasticware and cheap decorations for birthdays and the current holiday.

Yes some Dollar Tree stores have refrigerated and freezer sections.

Can confirm, the Dollar Tree near me has this.

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