Paul Cohen opened the first Dollar Discount Store in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, in 1982. With the help of his family, who had about 40 years of retail experience, he expanded the company into a chain, then began franchising in 1987. Each Dollar Discount Store offers a variety of products, including toys, paper goods, snacks and school supplies, for $1. Stores can also sell more expensive items ranging in price from $1 to $15.