Customers of 99 Cents Only are pleading for their beloved discount store to remain open, even as the company plans to close all its locations.
The chain, known for selling bargain-priced items, declared bankruptcy last week. However, there is a glimmer of hope: An experienced industry professional has expressed interest in rescuing some stores.
Shoppers Protest Closing of Discount Stores
99 Cents Only stores in the southwestern states are set to close following a bankruptcy announcement, leaving many customers distressed.
"This needs to stay open," a loyal shopper told the Los Angeles Times.
"I make OK money, and buying here helps me. But imagine if you're on WIC? If you're on Social Security? You need a place like this. Are people now supposed to go to Ralphs? Or Target? With what money?"
Another customer highlighted how the store's low prices were crucial for her family's budget. "I could buy toys for my younger kids, my older kids could get pens for school, and I could do groceries for all of us. And the prices, of course."
She noted the broader economic trends resignedly, saying, "Well, everything is more expensive nowadays, so I guess this had to end."
The mood was somber at the 99 Cents Only store as customers pushed shopping carts through the doors. Despite signs advertising "Everything Must Go! Up to 30% Off," no one was smiling. Shoppers offered their condolences to the staff and shared their frustrations openly.
"I blame [Gavin] Newsom," stated Rick Juarez, 53, as he picked up batteries. A regular for over two decades, he criticized the California governor for policies forcing businesses to shut down.
"Too many taxes, too high the minimum wage. These companies just can't compete, and it's poor people like us who end up suffering."
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Meanwhile, Victor Barrios expressed hope amid the store's looming closure, clinging to rumors that investors might step in to save the 99 Cents Only chain.
The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Sunday, April 7, raising concerns among those who rely on its affordability in a time of rising living costs.
Potential Lifeline for 99 Cents Only Stores
There is a glimmer of hope for the future of the 143 99 Cents Only locations in Southern California, thanks to former Big Lots president Mark J. Miller.
Miller, now CEO of Pic 'N' Save Bargains, has assembled a consortium of buyers interested in purchasing these stores to preserve the brand within the state. In a discussion with Eyewitness News on ABC7, he described the deal as "a match made in heaven."
"What I want to make sure is that yes, there's a big food business at the 99 Cents stores and that we continue as far as great goods, great prices... great bargains, great treasure hunt items," Miller explained. He emphasized his goal of including more branded products at affordable prices.
This potential acquisition comes at a time when many dollar stores are facing financial challenges.
Miller shared plans with Los Angeles Magazine for significant changes post-purchase.
According to Miller, if his group successfully acquires the stores, they will temporarily shut them down for about 90 days following the conclusion of the ongoing liquidation sales. This closure will be used to prepare for a grand reopening.
Miller aims to reintroduce the "treasure hunt" shopping experience, a unique selling point that originally drew customers to these stores. This strategy offers an ever-changing array of discounted goods that encourage frequent visits.
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