KTRE.com Lufkin and Nacogdoches |Discount stores boom amid recession

Discount stores boom amid recession

By Jena Johnson - bio | email

LUFKIN, TX (KTRE) - A rush of shoppers pinching their pennies has helped sales at discount stores boom. In the fourth quarter of 2008, Dollar General sales were up by nearly 12%.

"I feel like I have stock in it," said Vivian Overshine, Dollar General shopper. Overshine said she lives in close proximity to the discount store, so it's convenient and cheap to shop there.

Overshine's not the only one helping sales soar; many consumers said they're saving big bucks on everyday necessities.

"A loaf of bread, tissue paper and windex. Windex is a big save here," said Dianne Williamson, Dollar General shopper. Williamson said discount prices are stretching her dollar. "I definitely save money, I don't know exactly how much, but I know I save," said Williamson.

That way she can afford to splurge on little extras for her family. "I bought some playing cards for my grandchildren," said Williamson. "They cost a dollar. It keeps them busy when I'm cooking supper."

During tight economic times, people's budgets' are spread thin. There's not always enough money to go around. As people fight through the slumping economy, for many it's nice to know discount stores are right there with you.