With 99 Cents Only stores nearing closure in California, people on the Central Coast share concerns about losing affordable options

SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV) - Since 1982 the 99 Cents Only store has been a go-to spot for shoppers looking for the most affordable prices.

Now some people are disappointed to hear that the company will be closing all of its stores in California, three of which are in the Central Coast.

"It would be a great loss for us because this is a place you can afford some food and, you know, you know, how inflation and it has been going and it's let's look at the gasoline $5 a gallon. So it's a big hit for us losing these stores," said a customer at the 99-cent store.

"I was surprised because they've been open for so many years and I always come here," said Esperanza Hernandez who lives in Salinas.

Several shoppers could be seen walking out of a store in Salinas Friday with bags full of items. KION caught up with some who say this is the store they visit for essentials like food and cleaning supplies.

"I purchase fruit and prune produce. Yeah. And cheese and everything. I buy their meat every once about. I'll pick up a snack. Everything's usually lower here. It's fresh, it's dependable," said a customer from the 99-cent store.

With the store that guarantees the lowest prices, shoppers say this store has gotten them through tough times. Now the thought of them having to shop elsewhere is daunting.

"We worry about it, and we will have to reduce because we will have to reduce what we buy because it will be more expensive, but we have to adapt," said Teresa who lives in Salinas.

Operators of the 99 cents-only stores announced Thursday they will shut down all 371 of the locations.

The CEO of the company says it was a tough decision. Blaming the pandemic, challenges in the retail environment, and inflation.

"It's a bad sign of the times. It doesn't look good."

The closure will impact all company locations in California, Arizona, Nevada, and Texas.