In early 2026, discount retailers are seeing significant market momentum and share price outperformance driven by a broad-based erosion of consumer confidence and a surge in store traffic. However, these gains are tempered by operational challenges, including persistent selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) costs and new mandates that cut Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding and ban high-margin items. To capitalize on this shift, experts recommend a strategic reset focused on labor optimization, disciplined cost management, and curated product assortments to maintain margins while serving a diverse consumer base.
© Copyright 2026. The views expressed herein are those of the author(s) and not necessarily the views of Ankura Consulting Group, LLC., its management, its subsidiaries, its affiliates, or its other professionals. Ankura is not a law firm and cannot provide legal advice.
