The Best Discount Retailers in America, According to Shoppers

You might not have to shell out as much money on those Gucci shoes as you think, thanks to major discount retailers.

Discount stores are growing more and more appealing to American consumers, according to a recent study from the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI). The ACSI Retail and Consumer Shipping Study for 2023-2024 reports satisfaction benchmarks for six retail industries based on interviews with more than 40,000 customers.

The ACSI found that discount retailers (that’s where you can find those luxury-brand shoes) have seen a jump in satisfaction thanks to efforts to “up their game across the board.” Meanwhile, satisfaction at major warehouse club brands such as Costco and Sam’s Club remained unchanged.

Let’s get into the top discount retailers and see what sets them apart to consumers.

1. TJX (Marshalls and TJ Maxx)

American Customer Satisfaction Index score in:

• 2024: 79 (on a 100-point scale)
• 2023: 77

Marshalls and T.J. Maxx attract customers for their great deals — particularly on designer and other high-end items. They have lots to offer for customers looking beyond discounted luxury goods, too. Both stores offer home essentials you can shop by room.

2. Big Lots

American Customer Satisfaction Index score in:

• 2024: 78
• 2023: 73

Big Lots’ influence is far-reaching, with 1,400 locations in nearly every state. Like the previous stores, it provides a wide variety of discounted goods for customers to choose from, so it can act as a one-stop shop. Customers who sign up for their free rewards program get to enjoy even more discounts. Program perks include a $5 reward for every three purchases, exclusive coupons, free items and birthday gifts.

3. Burlington

American Customer Satisfaction Index score in:

• 2024: 76
• 2023: 74

While its full name was once Burlington Coat Factory, Burlington sells much more than that, including all kinds of clothing, handbags, beauty products and home goods. Members of its free loyalty program may find it very much worth it, getting early notifications of additional markdowns, extended returns without a receipt and receive layaway bonuses.

Other discount retailers

These national brands also saw a jump in customer satisfaction over the past year:

• Dollar Tree
  • 2024: 74
  • 2023: 71
• Dollar General
  • 2024: 72
  • 2023: 70