GOODLETTSVILLE, Tenn. — Dollar General Corp. will open its 9,000th store Saturday in Fountain Run, Ken., returning to the state in which it began operations in 1955.

Dollar General Corp. will open its 9,000th store Saturday in Fountain Run, Ken., returning to the state in which it began operations in 1955.

The discount retailer now operates in 35 states.

"The opening of our 9,000th store is an exciting time for the Dollar General family, and I would like to thank our 80,000 employees for all they do every day to help us keep growing and serving our customers," said Rick Dreiling, chairman and chief executive officer. "As the company has evolved and expanded over the decades, we’ve remained true to our mission of serving others and our everyday low-price model. We look forward to what the future holds as we continue to serve the needs of our customers in communities throughout the country."