Dollar General's Rapid Expansion in NC

0:00It's March 26. This is Derm News Today, driven by AI. North Carolina now ranks second behind only Texas for the most dollar general stores. After adding 29 locations over the past year to pass, Georgia, the discount chain has grown rapidly in the state, jumping from 467 stores in 2008 to 1100, 50 today. This expansion targets rural areas where big competitors like Walmart can't match the convenience. The stores thrive by being close to home, with about 75% of Americans living within five miles of one, and smallest spots like Mount Erie or Lumberton, you'll find as many as 11 stores for populations under 20,000. Experts know plenty of underserved rural pockets remain, especially as rival family dollar pulls back by closing hundreds of locations. Locals aren't always thrilled though. The pushback has popped up in places like Transylvania County and Orange County, blocking some plans over safety worries, design issues, and fears of hurting local shops.

1:05The state also hits dollar general with fines now and then for overcharging a checkout. Looking ahead, the company plans over 400 new stores nationwide in 2026, but growth slowed last year amid tighter spending by, budget shoppers. Its stock has dropped from a peak near $260 to under 120. Meanwhile, Walmart keeps gaining ground with stronger sales and scale, while Dollar General brings in a new CEO from the Food Line Parent Company, betting on his North Carolina know-how for a rebound.