3 area stores expanding this year

Despite a growing number of store closures already in 2019, many retailers are looking to expand.

Retailers have announced plans to close more than 4,800 stores this year, but they also plan to open 2,264. While some retailers are struggling to keep up with changing consumer shopping habits and online sales, these three retailers plan to open stores this year:

1. Ross Dress For Less

A national off-price chain that will open its first Dayton-area store later this year, Ross Dress For Less is panning to continue expanding.

»RELATED: Thousands of stores plan to close in 2019: Here’s the list

The chain will open about 75 stores this year, along with an additional 25 dd’s Discounts locations, both owned by parent Ross Store’s Inc.

2. Aerie by American Eagle

Lingerie, sleepwear, swim and intimates brand Aerie will open 60 to 75 new stores, some standalone and other side by side with American Eagle locations. An Aerie store opened beside the American Eagle at the Mall at Fairfield Commons last year.

Aerie’s fourth quarter comparable sales increased 23 percent from 2017, following a 34 percent increase from 2016. The brand has seen double-digit comparable sales growth for 17 consecutive quarters.

»BIZ BEAT: Liquidation sales start today at womens apparel store set to close at area malls

3. Burlington

Burlington, which recently opened a store in Huber Heights, also plans to add 50 stores this year.

The off-price retailer saw same-store sales increase 1.3 percent in the fourth quarter of 2018, adding to a 5.9 percent increase the previous year.

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