Popular discount chain announces two Central Valley locations. Some ask ‘Why not Merced?

Daiso is scheduled to open a store in Atwater on Nov. 16, which led some in the community to ask, why is the store not opening in Merced?

Afterall, Merced is larger with a population of nearly 94,000 compared to Atwater’s nearly 32,000, according to U.S. Census figures.

The Japan-based chain brands itself as a retailer of Japanese-inspired home decoration, stationery and food at affordable prices. When the first Daiso store opened in the U.S. in 2005, all items sold under $2.

Although Daiso representatives are not currently looking to open a store in Merced, they’re expecting Merced residents to shop at their new Atwater location due to proximity, Trish Maeda, district manager for Daiso USA said. The store is slated to open Nov. 16 at 1260 Commerce Ave.

Some social media users have described Daiso as a better version of Dollar Tree or Five Below. Although the closest Five Below stores are in Los Banos and Turlock, there are at least four Dollar Tree stores in Merced. These stores sell housewares, craft supplies and seasonal décor, with most items priced at $1 or $5.

“Including Daiso, there are three other Asian-based retailers rolling out stores throughout California,” Jennifer Flachman, Merced public information officer, said, adding that city planners have met with two of those retailers for potential locations in Merced.

Local shoppers will have to be content with Dollar Tree for now, unless they want to hit the road.

This story was originally published November 2, 2024 at 6:00 AM.