Here is what you need to know about the chain often called the “TJ Maxx of Supermarkets” and why its expansion is a big deal for Maryland shoppers this year.
The “Treasure Hunt” Model
Unlike traditional grocery stores like Giant or Safeway, 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: Bethesda and Beyond
The big news for 2026 is the chain’s move toward the D.C. beltway. Reports from early January indicate that Grocery Outlet is actively recruiting operators for a new location in Bethesda, signaling its intent to enter the competitive Montgomery County market…