99¢ Only Stores T-Shirt - Defunct Discount Retail Chain Logo Tee
Remember when everything really was just 99 cents? This nostalgic tee celebrates 99¢ Only Stores, the discount retail chain that made bargain hunting an art form with their iconic "Do the 99" slogan.
The Rise and Fall of 99¢ Only Stores
Founded in 1982 by Dave Gold, 99¢ Only Stores became a West Coast institution, growing from a single Los Angeles location to over 380 stores across California, Texas, Arizona, and Nevada. The company's simple concept—selling name-brand merchandise for just 99 cents—struck gold during economic downturns and made it a beloved destination for budget-conscious shoppers.
At its peak in the 2000s, 99¢ Only Stores was publicly traded and generated hundreds of millions in revenue. The chain was famous for its treasure hunt shopping experience, where customers never knew what brand-name surprises they'd find on the shelves. From discontinued cosmetics to overstock food items, the stores offered genuine bargains that kept customers coming back.
However, rising costs, supply chain challenges, and increased competition from dollar store giants gradually eroded the company's "everything for 99¢" model. The chain was forced to introduce higher price points, breaking the core promise that built their brand. After years of declining sales and mounting debt, 99¢ Only Stores filed for bankruptcy in April 2024 and closed all remaining locations, ending over four decades of discount retail history.
Product Details
This commemorative tee features the classic 99¢ Only Stores logo with an authentically distressed, cracked vintage treatment that captures the nostalgic spirit of this beloved bargain destination. The design is printed on the front only, with a clean blank back.
- Fabric: 100% heavy cotton (5.3 oz)
- Brand: Gildan 5000
- Fit: Classic unisex, standard fit
- Construction: Preshrunk cotton with tear-away label
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL, 5XL
- Colors: Available in multiple popular color options
- Printing: High-quality direct-to-garment printing using the latest technology
Perfect for bargain hunters, retail history enthusiasts, former employees, or anyone who remembers the thrill of "doing the 99." A conversation starter that celebrates an era when a dollar could still stretch surprisingly far.
Note: This is an unofficial commemorative item and is not affiliated with or endorsed by 99¢ Only Stores or its former parent company.