Even though other copycats exist, I don't think something will ever replace the atmosphere of the 99 cent only stores. Before the logo rebrand, the original design and color way reminds me of the era of the vintage taco bells lol. The 99 was one of those stores that growing up reminded me that I was a low-income citizen. As a child, I was always trying to hide away and mask my "poorness" from my peers in school to protect my growing self-identity. Reconnecting with 99 cent stores as an adult with limited low-cost options, I have grown overly fond of this discount store. I literally was there a week ago and found the cutest battery powered flower lights that now adorn my bedframe and make me feel so Pinterest chic.
I have seen a wave of sad story posts on instagram regarding the closing of all stores, and it has reminded me of how important spaces like this are to our communities. I remember when I first started throwing diy backyard shows or when i needed cute deco for dj sets, the 99 always had my back without adding stress to my finances. I've walked to the closest 99cent store from a friend's to gather ingredients to feed a group of friends, all of us pitching in and enjoying our creation with shared laughs. Without the 99, I wouldn't have these memories engrained in me.
It feels weird getting older when most the things that helped me survive growing up are no longer around. No more spending time in the toy section collecting dragonball z keychains that originally were $9 each, no more pink shop carts and baskets, no more super cheap assortments of cacti and flowers. When I was running around doing graffiti, we would sometimes even find super discounted beer hahaha, it usually was warm but hey, punk rock.
I hope that in some weird twist of fate they don't disappear, but they start liquidation sales today. I am assuming in today's modern sale space, consumers choose stores like 5 below or aldi that offer a more posh mask to the low income lifestyle, I can't help but wonder if the decline of the 99 is somewhat intertwined with the negative opinions towards poor people. I love the 99 cent store! please dont go.
Do you think all the shoplifting contributed to the push for closure? I also have this theory that the company made all the money they wanted and now they have no need for operation because they are so wealthy that it’s like their form of retirement. Hoping for a moment like toys r us where they shut down and then came back bc someone else bought it.