Despite the impact on the economy due to low oil prices, consumers may be able to look forward to "buying affordable, world-class merchandise" following the recent opening of Dollar Plus Store inside the City Center Mall.

Dollar Plus general manager Manoj Rani said the store, which is located at the mall’s East Court basement, offers a wide range of "world-class" quality household items, all under QR20.

Asked if the oil crisis would affect the pricing of products, Rani said: “On the contrary, it would be good for us because during times like this people want to save money, and they will definitely come to stores like us. Both our prices in the UAE are the same with those offered here in Qatar.”

According to Rani, Dollar Plus is embarking on massive expansion plan. The newly-opened store at City Center is the first in Qatar. The other five outlets are based in the UAE.

“The company aims to put up at least 12 stores this year in select locations in Qatar. We want to put up at least 500 stores in the Middle East, and by next year we aim to open one store every week,” he said.

He said all items in the store are sourced from companies in Amsterdam, the UK, Netherlands, Japan, Poland, Spain, the US, and China. Rani also stressed that all products do not pose any health risks, as supplier companies “guarantee stringent quality control standards.”

Asked about the store’s market segment, Rani said: “Both Qataris and expatriates are our customers…we want Dollar Plus to be the first name to come to any consumer whether its kitchen utensils and accessories, party needs, electronics, and toys.”

Rani explained that Dollar Plus offers thousands of items in over 14 major merchandise categories “and is a dedicated one-stop value store” for all household and family shopping.

“Dollar Plus is a US concept brought to the Middle East by Apparel Group and showcases healthcare, fashion and beauty, cosmetics, accessories, household fittings and appliances, electronics, kitchenware, plastic and stationary, gifts and novelties, and toys,” he said.