Ross Stores, Inc. is an American off-price retailer known for offering a wide range of brand-name apparel, footwear, home goods, and more at discounted prices. Headquartered in Dublin, California, Ross operates primarily under the Ross Dress for Less brand, catering to cost-conscious consumers who seek value without sacrificing quality.
Key Points:
- Founded: 1982
- CEO: Barbara Rentler
- Headquarters: Dublin, California, USA
- Industries: Off-price retail
- Global Reach: Over 1,800 stores across 40 U.S. states, District of Columbia, and Guam
- Revenue: Approximately $19 billion in 2023
Ross Stores is the largest off-price retailer in the U.S., known for offering products at 20-60% below regular department store prices. The company operates with a “no-frills” approach, keeping operational costs low to pass on the savings to customers.
Core Brands:
- Ross Dress for Less: The flagship brand, offering discounted clothing, shoes, accessories, home décor, and more for men, women, and children.
- dd’s Discounts: A subsidiary of Ross Stores, dd’s Discounts offers similar products at even lower price points, focusing on economically conscious communities.
Business Model:
- Off-Price Retailing: Similar to competitors like TJX, Ross purchases excess inventory from manufacturers and other retailers, allowing it to offer brand-name merchandise at significant discounts.
- “Treasure Hunt” Shopping Experience: Ross Stores often carry limited quantities of items, creating a “treasure hunt” feel for shoppers as the merchandise changes frequently.
- Low Overhead: By operating without fancy displays, elaborate store layouts, or advertising expensive sales, Ross maintains low costs, which allows them to keep prices competitively low.
Merchandising Strategy:
- Broad Product Range: Ross sells a wide variety of products, including apparel, shoes, handbags, home décor, beauty products, and seasonal goods.
- Frequent Inventory Turnover: The company regularly restocks with new inventory, encouraging customers to return often to discover new bargains.
Sustainability and Social Responsibility:
- Environmental Commitment: Ross Stores is working to minimize waste and energy consumption in its operations, with initiatives like recycling programs and energy-efficient store designs.
- Corporate Social Responsibility: Ross supports community initiatives, including programs focused on education, children, and families. The company also promotes diversity and inclusion within its workforce.
Competitive Edge:
- Affordable Pricing: Ross’s ability to offer brand-name products at highly competitive prices makes it a preferred destination for bargain hunters.
- Wide Reach in the U.S.: Ross has expanded to nearly 1,900 stores, with plans to continue growing across the country.
Ross Stores has become a key player in the off-price retail market by maintaining a no-frills, high-value strategy that attracts shoppers looking for discounts on quality products, keeping the brand popular among budget-conscious consumers.