DOLLAR TREE Founded in 1959 by Leon Levine in Charlotte, North Carolina, Family Dollar began with a mission to provide essential goods at affordable prices. Over the years, the company expanded its footprint, catering to suburban and rural communities under-served by traditional retailers. In 1986, Dollar Tree emerged in Norfolk, Virginia, founded by Doug Perry, Macon Brock, and Ray Compton, pioneering the concept of quality products at a single price point. In 2015, Dollar Tree acquired Family Dollar, creating a formidable presence in the retail landscape. COMPANY OVERVIEW: Family Dollar, with 8,206 locations, and Dollar Tree, boasting over 8,200 stores, collectively operate as North America’s largest single-price-point retailer Family Dollar and Dollar Tree have experienced significant growth since their inception. Family Dollar’s strategic focus on suburban and rural markets has contributed to its resilience and expansion Dollar Tree’s commitment to offering quality products at affordable prices has garnered a loyal customer base. LOCAL MARKET MONMOUTH, IL Monmouth boasts a charming, connector city, well-preserved historic downtown area within Illinois. Lined with brick buildings, quaint shops, and local eateries, downtown Monmouth offers a delightful ambiance for shopping, dining, and leisurely strolls. With a population of more than 9,000 residents, Residents have the convenience of smalltown living while still being within driving distance of larger cities like Peoria, the Quad Cities, and Iowa City. Monmouth hosts a variety of festivals, fairs, and events that bring the community together. From the Monmouth Heritage Days celebration to the Monmouth Film Festival, there’s always something happening in town for residents and visitors to enjoy. MONMOUTH COLLEGE Home to Monmouth College, a prestigious liberal arts institution founded in 1853 is spread over 112 acres throuhgout the town, the town enjoys the cultural and intellectual vibrancy brought by the college community. The college hosts various events, lectures, and performances throughout the year, enriching the town’s cultural scene. PEORIA, IL MSA Peoria is a city located in the state of Illinois and is considered the largest city on the Illinois River with more than 100,000 residents within it’s city’s population. Peoria’s economy has been heavily reliant on manufacturing, particularly in the global production and headquater of heavy machinery, such as Caterpillar Inc., one of the world’s largest manufacturers of construction and mining equipment. The city is also accessible by several major highways including Interstate 74 and Interstate 474 which are connectors.