OHIO - For years, Ohio shoppers—especially those in the major metros like Columbus and Cincinnati—have watched from the sidelines as certain grocery chains took over other parts of the country. But with grocery prices remaining high and inflation continuing to pinch wallets, one of the fastest-growing discount chains in America is finally making a major push into the heart of the Buckeye State.
Get your reusable bags ready: Grocery Outlet Bargain Market is accelerating its expansion in Ohio. While the California-based chain dipped its toe into the state with a location in Boardman back in late 2023, recent announcements indicate a much more aggressive expansion into Central Ohio and Northeast Ohio this year.
Here is what you need to know about the chain often called the "TJ Maxx of Supermarkets" and why its arrival in Columbus is a big deal for Ohio shoppers this year.
The "Treasure Hunt" Model
Unlike traditional grocery stores like Kroger or Giant Eagle, Grocery Outlet operates on an "opportunistic" buying model. They purchase overstock, packaging changes, and surplus inventory from major brands and sell them at a deep discount—typically 40% to 70% less than conventional stores.
This means you won't always find the exact same brand of cereal or pasta sauce every week. Instead, the shopping experience is described as a "treasure hunt," where you might find high-end organic cheeses, premium wines, and name-brand frozen goods for a fraction of the regular price.
The New Targets: Columbus and Canton
The big news for 2026 is the chain's move into the state's capital. Confirmed reports indicate that Grocery Outlet is opening its first Central Ohio location in Columbus on Bethel Road. This location serves as a major milestone, signaling the brand's intent to compete directly in Ohio's busiest markets.
This follows closely on the heels of expansion in Northeast Ohio, including new stores in Canton (on Everhard Road) and Ontario. This cluster of openings suggests the chain is building a serious supply network across the state.
Why Now?
The timing couldn't be better. With food prices remaining a top concern for families, Ohioans are increasingly swapping brand loyalty for better value. Grocery Outlet fills a unique niche: it offers the "natural and organic" products popular in suburbs like Dublin and Westerville, but at prices that compete with Aldi and Save A Lot.
What Shoppers Can Expect
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Deep Discounts: Significant savings on name brands, particularly in the dairy, frozen, and pantry aisles.
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NOSH: The chain is famous for its "Natural, Organic, Specialty, Healthy" (NOSH) section, which often features items found at Whole Foods but at steep markdowns.
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Independent Owners: Each store is independently owned and operated by a local family, meaning the inventory often caters specifically to the local neighborhood's tastes.
Next Steps
If you are in the Columbus area or near the new Northeast Ohio locations, keep an eye out for "Grand Opening" banners. The chain is moving quickly, and if the success of their initial Boardman location is any indicator, these new stores will likely see lines around the block on opening day.
