Japanese value chain Daiso looks to expand in Texas

Japanese value chain Daiso is opening stores across Texas as part of a national expansion strategy .

Why it matters: As inflation persists, Daiso offers a wide range of everyday items — many that you don't normally see in the U.S. — priced at $1.75.

• Yes, but: some products sell for up to $15.25.

State of play: There are currently 25 Daiso stores in Texas, most in the Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston areas, with at least 18 more set to open in the state by the end of the year, per John Clarke, chief development officer for Daiso USA.

• The chain opened its third Austin-area store in April and plans to open its first El Paso location June 1 .
• A San Antonio store is on the horizon.
• The company plans to have more than 100 locations in Texas by 2030.

Zoom in: Daiso sells porcelain bowls with cute cats painted on them, crafting supplies, pet toys, camping gear and incredibly soft plushies . And that's just scratching the surface.

What they're saying: The average customer spends $20 on a shopping trip to Daiso, Clarke tells Axios.

• "The Japanese snacks are a big hit for sure. They are extremely unique and really cannot be found in traditional grocery stores. Japanese kitchenware and Japanese stationery items are also popular."

Worthy of your time: Check out Texas social host Greg Castillo's recent trip to Daiso .

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