In a bid to rescue the majority of the 143 99 Cents Only stores in Southern California, Pic 'N' Save CEO and former Big Lots president, Mark Miller, is leading an initiative to acquire and continue the discount chain's operations. The company recently announced the closure of all its stores and winding down of business in California, Texas, Arizona, and Nevada.

Miller, along with a group of investors that includes former 99 Cents Store executives, aims to keep the chain alive and maintain its commitment to the community. Speaking to Eyewitness News, Miller expressed his desire to ensure the continuation of the store's affordable food business, great goods, great prices, bargains, and the excitement of the ever-popular treasure hunt items. Additionally, he emphasized the intention to offer more branded goods at affordable prices.

As shoppers rush to stock up on their last bargains before the stores permanently close their doors, the parking lots are full, and checkout lines are long. For many customers who rely on the budget prices, the closure brings a sense of discouragement and signifies tougher times ahead in managing their finances.

Miller believes a return to the basics is the key to saving the stores. He envisions a new and improved 99 Cents store experience that will cater to customer needs with better products and unique offerings.

On a separate front, two elected officials in Southern California are exploring support options for the affected employees. Los Angeles City Councilman Tim McOsker has coordinated with the city's Economic Workforce Development Department to provide a rapid response team that will assist the workers with various resources such as unemployment insurance benefits and job placement assistance. McOsker assures that every effort will be made to alleviate the negative impacts of the layoffs and support the workers, their families, and communities.

At the same time, Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn plans to introduce a motion during the next board meeting inquiring about the county's ability to extend support to the displaced workers. She aims to acquire a report from the county departments of Economic Opportunity and Consumer and Business Affairs within 60 days. Hahn expressed concern for the thousands of 99 Cents Store employees across L.A. County who will lose their jobs but reassures affected individuals that the county is ready to step in and provide assistance, including short-term aid, job training, and support to secure better employment opportunities.

As negotiations continue and efforts to save the stores intensify, the fate of Southern California's 99 Cents Only stores hangs in the balance. It remains to be seen if Miller's endeavor and the support from local officials will be enough to keep these beloved budget-friendly stores open for business.

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