The company has grown by at an average of two new stores each year. Discussions are underway, however, to purchase a competing chain of seven stores within the next six months. His two sons run the daily operations from the home office in Daleville, Ind. One son is responsible solely for the produce, and the other son oversees all other operations. With the stores and the central office combined, there are approximately 1,200 employees. The store manager hires all employees at a given location and is responsible for the site's upkeep.
Every store manager reports to one of the founder's sons.
Because bonuses are based on a store's fiscal performance, competition among managers to have the most profitable location is fierce. The home office purchases all the food to stock Bargain City stores' shelves. Wholesalers visit once a week and receive orders based on compiled lists of what's selling at each of the 12 stores. Purchases are made in bulk for all 12 stores, and the wholesalers then deliver portions of the order to each store. By placing only one order, Bargain City is able to negotiate a quantity discount.