Ross Stores (ROST)

Business Model: Off-Price Retail

Ross Stores (ROST) is one of the largest off-price retailers in the United States. If you have ever heard of buying big-name brands at deeply discounted prices, that is the core of Ross's business. The company operates under two banners: Ross Dress for Less (the flagship, larger-format stores) and its smaller sibling, dd's DISCOUNTS (a smaller format, lower price point, targeting a more price-sensitive income segment).

Ross makes money in a way that is quite different from a typical fashion retailer: it buys closeout and excess inventory from well-known brands — apparel, footwear, accessories, home fashion — at prices far below normal wholesale cost, then resells it at 20% to 60% off department and specialty store prices. Ross runs a deliberately lean cost structure — minimal e-commerce spend, minimal advertising, and a no-frills 'treasure hunt' store experience (different merchandise on every visit) — which lets operating margins stay high even though selling prices are low.

Ross Dress for Less vs dd's DISCOUNTS

As of January 31, 2026, Ross operated 2,267 stores in total — 1,904 Ross Dress for Less and 363 dd's DISCOUNTS. Ross Dress for Less is the core banner with larger store formats and a broader product assortment, while dd's DISCOUNTS targets an even lower price point in underserved markets, and is now emerging as an additional growth engine alongside the flagship banner.

Leadership

Ross's current CEO is Jim Conroy, appointed in February 2025. He brings retail turnaround experience — he previously served as President and CEO of Boot Barn Holdings, and before that held roles at Claire's Stores as COO, Interim Co-CEO, President and EVP. Since taking over, Conroy's focus has been on marketing, merchandising, and improving the in-store experience.

Shariah Compliance Status

Ross Stores (ROST) is confirmed SHARIAH COMPLIANT per our reference screening — its core business is apparel and home goods retail, with no material non-compliant activity.

Recent Developments

For FY2026, Ross plans to open around 110 new stores (85 Ross + 25 dd's DISCOUNTS), representing roughly 5% unit growth. The company is also expanding its geographic footprint beyond its core Sunbelt base, entering more locations in the Mountain, Midwest and Northeast regions of the US. Its long-term target is 2,900 Ross stores plus 700 dd's DISCOUNTS locations.

This section is being refreshed with the latest figures. Please check back soon.

This section is being refreshed with the latest figures. Please check back soon.