Pass the buck, get a penny back. 99 Cents Only Stores sells closeout and regular general merchandise for 99 cents (or less) through 380-plus stores in three states; two-thirds of its stores are in California, while the rest are in Texas, Arizona, and Nevada. The retailer sells name-brand and private-label food and grocery products (which make up nearly 60% of sales), along with health and beauty aids, household and seasonal goods, hardware, stationary, party products, and more. Its Bargain Wholesale unit distributes discounted merchandise to retailers, distributors, and exporters. Founded in 1982, 99 Cents Only Stores was taken private by Ares Management, Canada Pension Plan Investment, and the Gold/Schiffer family in 2012.