Imagine walking into a store where every corner holds a surprise—brand‑name kitchenware, chic apparel, gourmet snacks, and seasonal décor—all at deeply discounted prices. That’s the experience of shopping at Ocean State Job Lot, often affectionately called “Job Lot.”
Founded in 1977 in Rhode Island, this regional retail chain has grown into a thriving discount powerhouse. What started as a single store has now evolved into more than 170 locations across the Northeast and Mid‑Atlantic. Job Lot is not just about bargains—it’s about community, sustainability, and impact.
A Rich History Built on Closeouts and Community
Ocean State Job Lot opened its first location in North Kingstown, Rhode Island, in August 1977. Its founders—Marc Perlman, Alan Perlman, and Roy Dubs—had a simple but bold idea: acquire overstock and closeout merchandise from major brands and sell it at unbeatable prices.
Their model worked. Over the decades, Job Lot has grown steadily, often revitalizing vacant retail spaces—transforming former big-box locations like Toys “R” Us and Christmas Tree Shops into thriving stores that bring life back to local economies.
More than a discount store, Job Lot built its reputation on value, trust, and a commitment to giving back.
What Makes Ocean State Job Lot Stand Out
The “Treasure Hunt” Shopping Experience
Walking through a Job Lot store is unlike a typical retail experience. It’s part adventure, part practicality. You never quite know what you’ll find—which is part of the appeal.
The inventory is always changing. One day it might be organic olive oil at half the price, another day it could be snow shovels in September. Shoppers describe it as a “grab-bag of greatness,” and it taps into the thrill of the hunt.
Closeouts, Overstock, and Big Brands at Bargain Prices
Ocean State Job Lot operates differently than big-box retailers. It buys merchandise from manufacturers and distributors when items are overproduced, returned, mislabeled, or simply surplus. This includes major brands—often the same items sold at places like Walmart, Target, or Costco—just at a fraction of the cost.
By sourcing opportunistically and maintaining low overhead, Job Lot can pass those savings directly to the consumer.
Regional Focus, Local Feel
Despite growing to over 170 locations, Ocean State Job Lot has remained true to its regional identity. Stores span from Maine down to Maryland, yet each maintains a strong connection to the local community.
The company invests in underserved markets and adapts to the unique needs of each location, whether that’s in a busy city or a rural town.
Awards, Recognition, and Trust
Best-in-Class Loyalty Program
Job Lot’s “Insider Club” has received national acclaim, including recognition in the top tier of USA Today’s best customer loyalty programs. Members benefit from exclusive offers, free items, and Crazy Deal gift cards that often match or exceed the value of the purchase.
It’s one of the most popular loyalty programs in the discount retail space, helping to build a loyal customer base who feel rewarded just for shopping.
Recognized as a Top Workplace
Ocean State Job Lot has also been repeatedly honored as a top employer. It has appeared on prestigious lists such as:
- America’s Greatest Workplaces for Parents & Families
- U.S. Best Managed Companies by Deloitte
- Top 100 Global Inspiring Workplaces
These recognitions reflect a strong workplace culture, thoughtful leadership, and genuine investment in employee well-being.
Sustainability and Social Responsibility
Job Lot is committed to environmental sustainability. It has achieved Net Zero Waste status across its operations and is actively working toward Net Zero energy and emissions.
Initiatives include:
- Expanding solar installations
- Implementing LED lighting
- Offering EV charging stations
- Recycling packaging and organic waste
It’s won multiple Sustainability Leadership Awards and continues to lead among mid-sized retailers in environmental stewardship.
Retail with a Conscience — Charitable Giving
One of the most distinguishing features of Ocean State Job Lot is its commitment to giving back. Through its Charitable Foundation, the company makes a massive impact on food insecurity, veterans’ services, education, disaster relief, and animal welfare.
Here are just a few examples:
- Three Square Meals: One of the largest food distribution programs in the Northeast, delivering millions of meals annually to food-insecure families.
- Buy-Give-Get: Customers who buy an item for donation receive a gift card of equal value. This program has delivered over 60,000 winter coats to veterans and 35,000 backpacks to military children.
- Animal Welfare: Their “To the Rescue” campaign supports over 190 animal shelters with pet food, toys, and care products.
Perhaps most impressively, 100% of all donations go directly to the causes. Administrative and operational costs are covered by the company itself.
Behind the Scenes — Modern Logistics and Efficiency
Ocean State Job Lot operates a 1.3 million square foot distribution center in North Kingstown, Rhode Island—one of the largest in the region.
Key facts:
- 134 loading bays
- 88,000 pallet positions
- Nearly 17,000 deliveries annually
- In-house private fleet of 63+ trucks
This investment in infrastructure means better control over product quality, delivery timing, and safety—leading to a smoother shopping experience and fewer supply chain disruptions.
The logistics team also prioritizes fleet safety with:
- Advanced driver training
- In-vehicle camera systems
- Regular equipment upgrades
This not only meets but exceeds upcoming national emissions and safety standards.
Real-Life Example: The Waterbury Store
Take the example of the Ocean State Job Lot store in Waterbury, Connecticut. For years, the Lakewood Road location served the local community with discounted goods and seasonal favorites.
In 2024, the company announced plans to relocate the store to a more accessible and spacious location to better serve customers. Notably, all associates were retained, and the new facility promised improved layout, parking, and inventory selection.
This kind of thoughtful transition shows the company’s respect for both its employees and the communities it serves.
Quick Facts (Optimized for Snippets)
- What is Ocean State Job Lot?
A privately-owned discount retail chain founded in 1977 in Rhode Island. It specializes in overstock, closeout, and surplus merchandise. - Where are its stores located?
Over 170 locations across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, including states like Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Maryland. - What makes it different?
Constantly changing inventory, deep discounts, commitment to sustainability, a top-rated loyalty program, and strong charitable giving. - Why are the prices so low?
Ocean State Job Lot buys overstock, closeout, and excess merchandise in bulk from major brands and suppliers—then resells at lower prices with minimal markup.
Ocean State Job Lote
- Discount retail chain
- Closeout deals
- Treasure hunt shopping
- Overstocks and surplus inventory
- Discount grocery and home goods
- Veteran donations and charity retail
- Eco-friendly retail operations
- Insider Club loyalty program
- New England discount stores
- Seasonal bargain shopping
These terms help the post rank for a variety of related queries without keyword stuffing.
Why Ocean State Job Lot Is More Relevant Than Ever
As consumers continue to seek value and transparency in a post-inflation economy, Ocean State Job Lot delivers on both. It’s not just about getting a good deal—it’s about feeling good about the deal.
With initiatives in sustainability, workforce development, and social impact, OSJL proves that a discount store doesn’t have to cut corners. In fact, it can lead the way.
Final Thoughts
Ocean State Job Lot represents something rare in retail: a business model that benefits both the customer and the community. From its deep discounts on national brands to its wide-reaching charitable programs, OSJL offers more than just great products—it offers purpose.
Whether you’re stocking up on pantry staples, preparing for the holidays, or looking to support companies that give back, this family-run chain is a true hidden gem in modern retail.