It's important to realize that when I give Ollie's Bargain Outlet a 4-star rating, I'm skewing on this weird discount store curve rating in my mind.
If I were to compare Ollie's Bargain Outlet to anything, I'd likely call it a slightly upscale Big Lots.
Take that for what you will.
I seldom shop at an Ollie's precisely because they are seldom truly wheelchair friendly. The same is true at this location near 53rd & Keystone that opened on August 26th. I mean, if you're not truly accessible at opening then accessibility is probably not a true priority for you.
That's what I'd say here.
That said, I can mostly get down each aisle and this is definitely a cleaner version than some of the Ollie's that I've seen. The employees were mostly friendly if not particularly inspired.
Ollie's has a much broader selection than Big Lots. It's definitely not a "dollar store." This is actually an ideal location for an Ollie's - it takes over a spot that used to be a Marsh that become a Sav-A-Lot.
I've never been to a Sav-A-Lot. It's on my bucket list to die being able to say that.
Ollie's has some amazing deals. Ollie's has some non-deals. Ollie's has some awesome food items. Ollie's has some nearly expired or expired food items.
Ollie's has a program called "Ollie's Army" that gives you points for purchases. It's a rewards program.
Ollie's does have some decent charitable programs, as well.
Ollie's is the kind of place I would shop when I truly don't care about brand names. While they do have brand names, it's as random as a Big Lots type place. This is mostly close-out stuff, overstocks, occasionally damaged items, or, well, you get the point.
This is close to my neighborhood and I'm pleased that this spot was taken. It also seems to have led to some additional renewal in this retail center. That's always good for the neighborhood.
Overall, on the discount store scale this is one of the better options on this side of town. The closest Big Lots is at 62nd and Allisonville and it's a complete pit. You do have other options for discount food items in this area, but with the overall selection Ollie's is definitely worth a stop.
If you make this location your favorite on their website, this can help make sure you're aware of any special items. read more