NORTH SYRACUSE -- At a time when more and more people are using dollar stores, one national chain says it hopes to soon open more stores in Central New York.

A spokesperson for Family Dollar says the company already has more than 6800 stores nationwide.  He says it plans to open an additional 300 stores this fiscal year and renovate 600-800 stores. 

Josh Braverman says the company is planning to put new stores in Central New York, and he says some of the existing stores are being targeted for renovations.  However, he said he couldn't get into specifics because the plans could still change.  Braverman says renovations include a redesigned layout of the store, 500 new items, and new signs.

According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, Family Dollar reported its best first quarter earnings in more than 12 years.  A new study also shows that more than one-third of consumers say they now shop at a dollar store.

Central New York dollar store shoppers say they have been able to find good bargains in a convenient location. 

"They're very good at telling you what's on sale, and what's going on," says Susan Stevenson, who says she shops at a dollar store about twice a week.  "It's just more comfortable.  It's not so crowded and overwhelming."

Dollar stores have made big changes over the years.  Many are offering a wider selection, and many also sell items that don't cost one dollar.

Have you been spending more time at dollar stores in the past few years?  Post your comments below.