Chesapeake, Virginia — Dollar Tree is preparing to close dozens of stores across the country in 2026, but the move is only one part of a much larger expansion strategy that will see the discount retailer continue growing its national footprint.
According to the company’s first-quarter earnings report released on May 28, Dollar Tree expects to close approximately 75 stores during fiscal 2026. While the company confirmed the planned closures, it has not disclosed which locations will be affected.
At the same time, the retailer is moving ahead with an ambitious expansion plan that includes opening hundreds of new stores across North America.
Dollar Tree Still Plans to Open Hundreds of New Stores
Although some existing locations will close, Dollar Tree expects to open roughly 400 new stores during 2026, meaning its overall store count is projected to increase.
The company opened 113 new stores during the first quarter, bringing its total footprint to 9,382 locations across the United States and Canada as of May 2.
The latest expansion reflects Dollar Tree’s continued investment in growing its presence even as it evaluates underperforming locations for closure.
For shoppers, the announcement means the company is reshaping—not shrinking—its business.
More Stores Are Moving Beyond the Traditional $1 Model
Dollar Tree is also continuing to roll out its multi-price store format, giving customers access to a broader selection of products at different price points.
During the first quarter alone, the retailer converted or added about 630 stores to the multi-price concept.
As a result, approximately 5,900 Dollar Tree locations now offer merchandise beyond the company’s traditional single-price model, allowing shoppers to choose from a wider range of everyday essentials and seasonal products.
The strategy is designed to improve product variety while giving customers more shopping options.
Company Says Focus Remains on Long-Term Growth
Dollar Tree President and CEO Mike Creedon said the company remains focused on investing in stores and improving the overall customer experience as it celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2026.
“As we celebrate our 40th anniversary in 2026, we are encouraged by the progress we are seeing across the business and remain focused on making thoughtful investments in our stores, assortment and customer experience — building Dollar Tree to last for decades to come,” Creedon said in a statement.
The retailer says its long-term strategy includes strengthening store operations, expanding merchandise selection and creating a better shopping experience for customers.
Retailer Expands Into Higher-Income Communities
Another noticeable shift in Dollar Tree’s strategy is where it is opening new stores.
Rather than focusing primarily on traditional discount retail locations, the company has increasingly expanded into more affluent neighborhoods, hoping to attract shoppers with higher household incomes who typically spend more per visit.
A Bloomberg News analysis published in February found that 49% of Dollar Tree’s new stores opened during the past six years were located in wealthier metropolitan areas, compared with 41% during the previous six-year period.
The trend suggests Dollar Tree is broadening its customer base while continuing to serve value-conscious shoppers across the country.
With store closures, hundreds of new openings and an evolving product strategy, Dollar Tree appears focused on reshaping its business for long-term growth rather than reducing its overall presence.
What do you think about Dollar Tree’s expansion strategy? Would you like to see more multi-price stores in your area, or do you prefer the retailer’s traditional pricing model? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
