Dollar General is preparing to roll out a new store format in 2026 designed to encourage browsing and discovery, while also testing a subscription-based loyalty program.
CEO Todd Vasos said during an earnings call that the redesigned layout is intended to create more of a “treasure hunt” shopping experience for customers.
Elements of the concept were previously tested in a portion of the retailer’s store remodels completed in 2025. Alongside the format update, Dollar General plans to pilot a subscription offering as part of its broader loyalty strategy.
The company reported fourth-quarter net sales of $10.9 billion, an increase of 5.9% year over year, according to a company statement. Comparable sales rose 4.3%, while operating profit surged about 106.1% to $606.3 million.
For the full fiscal year 2025, Dollar General posted net sales of $42.7 billion, up 5.2% from the previous year.
Looking ahead to fiscal 2026, the retailer expects net sales growth between 3.7% and 4.2%, with same-store sales projected to rise between 2.2% and 2.7%.
The new store layout and subscription program are part of a broader effort to improve the shopping experience and increase discretionary spending at Dollar General stores.
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“Ultimately, we believe this format will help drive both increased transactions and ticket as the store provides for an even fuller fill in trip,” Vasos told analysts on the call.
The company undertook a major store remodeling effort in 2025. According to Vasos, the project not only refreshed store environments but also contributed to lower turnover among store managers at renovated locations.
During the fourth quarter, Dollar General saw increases in both customer traffic and average basket size. Vasos said the higher average basket was primarily driven by increases in average unit retail prices, though it was partially offset by a decline in the number of items purchased per transaction.
He also noted that shoppers across all income levels are increasingly focused on value.
“We are meeting this need as we continue to grow penetration with households of all income levels, and while we continue to be pleased with our pricing position against competitors and other classes of trade, we know value is multifaceted, especially for our core customer,” Vasos said during the call.
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