As many retail chains struggle to stay afloat in today’s economy, one Japanese bargain store is doing the opposite—ramping up expansion and making bold moves into new territory.
Daiso, a brand often compared to Dollar Tree, is opening more stores across the U.S., including its very first in Arkansas.
Daiso Adds 15 More Stores in the U.S.—With No Signs of Slowing
Daiso has announced it’s launching 15 new stores across eight U.S. states, bringing its total openings for 2025 to 44 so far.
The company’s next grand opening is set for July 19 in La Quinta, California, but that’s just the beginning.
Over the next few months, locations will also pop up in Colorado, Florida, Kansas, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and for the first time ever, Arkansas.
With nearly 200 U.S. locations already, Daiso’s push to expand shows no signs of slowing down—and it’s a serious play for more market share in the American budget retail scene.
What Makes Daiso Stand Out From Its Rivals
Originally from Japan, Daiso has built a loyal fanbase worldwide for its unique blend of quality and affordability.
Customers can shop from over 100,000 products that include household goods, snacks, stationery, beauty items, and even quirky lifestyle finds.
Many items are priced around $1.75, making it a go-to for deal hunters looking for more than the typical dollar-store fare.
The retailer first entered the U.S. market in 2005, and after nearly two decades, its success here mirrors its global popularity.
Since opening its first international store in Taiwan in 2001, Daiso has grown to operate more than 1,000 stores across 25 countries.
California Leads the Way in Store Count
It’s no surprise that California is home to the largest number of Daiso locations in the U.S.—and it continues to be a key market for expansion. That said, the brand’s upcoming store launches show a clear plan to reach new parts of the country.
By 2030, Daiso hopes to have 1,000 stores operating across the United States.
How Daiso Compares to Its Competitors
Still, Daiso has some serious catching up to do. Dollar Tree, its biggest U.S. rival, recently acquired the struggling 99 Cents Only chain and now boasts over 9,000 stores across North America.
Five Below, another fast-growing discount chain, has plans to open 150 new U.S. locations this year.
Though Daiso is gaining ground, its annual U.S. revenue—just under $3 billion—still trails far behind Dollar Tree’s $30.9 billion in 2024.
It’s Not All Smooth Sailing in Retail
While Daiso continues to grow, many retailers—especially those in the budget or pharmaceutical sectors—are struggling.
Family Dollar, which merged with Dollar Tree in 2015, has seen persistent financial issues.
Dollar Tree recently agreed to sell the chain for $1 billion, finalizing the deal on July 7—just a year after hundreds of Family Dollar locations were shuttered.
The pharmacy world isn’t faring much better. Rite Aid, which filed for bankruptcy again this past May, has closed numerous stores and sold off assets to stay afloat.
Even CVS is planning to shut down up to 270 stores in the near future.
Store Closures Still Loom Large Nationwide
Economic pressure, shifting consumer habits, and additional tariff impacts are putting retailers on edge.
Industry experts warn that 15,000 stores across the country could close before the year ends.
But for now, Daiso is staying optimistic and ambitious.
As the brand plants its flag in new states and builds a broader U.S. footprint, it’s clear they’re not just surviving—they’re looking to thrive.
DailyMail.com has reached out to Daiso for official comment on the U.S. expansion plans.