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Shipping problems have squeezed the chain to a breaking point.

Anyone I’ve ever known who’s worked in a dollar store has the same complaint about the experience: people asking “how much is this?” Obviously, the answer was always “one dollar,” because it is a dollar store, you see. However, it seems that the economic hardships of the pandemic have begun to impact even this staple of middle America, which means dollar store employees will be hearing that question much more frequently.

Dollar Tree, a chain of dollar stores that conducts business all over the country after originating in the American southeast, has been a boon for those in difficult financial situations during the pandemic, as its large supply of random items from food to clothes, all priced at a dollar, have ensured people always have access to what they need (more or less). Unfortunately, much like many retailers at the moment, Dollar Tree has been beset with shipping problems and delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and especially the proliferation of the delta variant. In order to both save money and make money, then, the chain has decided it’s time to up the ante and begin raising prices.

Buck up: Dollar Tree, the national chain of stores that promises everything for a buck, will begin introducing items on its shelves that will exceed $1. https://t.co/3SgjoWqihb #odd

— AP Oddities (@AP_Oddities) September 29, 2021

Going forward, Dollar Tree locations will begin stocking items at prices higher than $1.00. While much of the store’s typical fare will still be available for a dollar or thereabouts, many Dollar Tree locations have begun testing “Plus” programs, stocking items that cost as much as $5.00. In addition to that, the regular shelves will feature items costing $1.25 and $1.50 going forward.

“For decades, our customers have enjoyed the ‘thrill-of-the-hunt’ for value at one dollar – and we remain committed to that core proposition – but many are telling us that they also want a broader product assortment when they come to shop,” Dollar Tree CEO Michael Witynski in a prepared statement.