Dollar General is set to introduce a new store format designed to encourage customers to browse and “treasure hunt” before they make a purchase.
The dollar store chain plans to upgrade customer experience this year with the introduction of a new store format — as well as pilot a subscription program.
“We have reimagined our traditional store format by creating a new layout in response to what customers have told us they want from their shopping trip,” Emily Taylor, chief operating officer, said during an earnings call Thursday.
The new format is “designed to be more open and inviting, resulting in greater browsing and treasure hunt shopping as customers are exposed to more categories as they navigate the store,” Taylor added.
It was not immediately clear how the layout across stores would change. The Independent has contacted Dollar General for comment.
Even still, Dollar General says its new format tested well at some of its stores that it remodeled in 2025, noting an “incremental sales lift.”
The new layout also resulted in lower store manager turnover rates compared to the chain's average, Taylor said.
Dollar General is also planning to pilot a subscription program as part of its loyalty efforts, company officials said during the earnings call.
“Looking ahead, we have ample opportunity to further drive incremental sales growth through customer experience enhancements, increased customer awareness, and expanded loyalty opportunities, including a planned pilot of a subscription program,” Taylor said, without elaborating on what kind of subscription the chain might offer.
Dollar General plans to open 450 new stores in 2026, with a focus on rural areas. As of 2026, the chain has over 20,000 locations across the U.S., according to its website.
The chain saw net sales increased 5.9 percent to $10.9 billion during its fourth quarter last year. Same-store sales jumped 4.3 percent and its operating profit increased 106 percent to $606 million.
“Our strong fourth-quarter results reflect our ongoing commitment to operational excellence and strategic expansion. We see substantial opportunities for growth as we continue to serve our customers with value and convenience,” CEO Todd Vasos said during the call.
