Retailers ramping up expansion

New York -- From extreme-value discounters to c-store operators, retailers across the board are expanding their brick-and-mortar portfolios in 2015. Here’s a review:



• Dollar General will open 730 new stores and remodel 875 existing locations.



• DSW Inc. will open 35 stores, including locations in at least 12 new markets.



• Express is ramping up its new outlet format with 30 locations.



• Tween and teen fave Five Below Inc. confirmed plans to open 70 stores this year, up from 62 in 2014.



• Hibbett Sports will open 80 to 85 stores, and expand 10 to 15 existing locations.



•Mattress Firm plans to open 200 to 220 new stores.



• Off-pricer Ross Stores is adding 90 stores, with 70 Ross Dress for Less and 20 dd’s Discounts.



• Convenience store operator Sheetz will open 30 stores. The family-owned company is also testing a 15,000-sq.-ft. grocery store and café concept aimed at college students in Morgantown, West Virginia.



• Ulta Beauty continues on the fast-track, with 100 new locations planned.