Global retailers from China, Ireland and Japan were among the fastest-growing retailers in the United States last year as consumers increasingly seek out experiential in-person shopping.
That’s according to the National Retail Federation, which recently published its Hot 25 Retailers ranking. Compiled by analytics company Kantar, the trade group’s annual report examines all retailers with global sales topping $3 billion, ranking them by increases in domestic sales between 2024 and 2025.
This year’s list points to “diversity and innovation” in the retail landscape, Mark Mathews, NRF chief economist and executive director of research, said in a statement.
“Shoppers are increasingly seeking a balance of value and quality, along with products that support their lifestyles,” added Kantar Senior Vice President David Marcotte. “The retailers gaining the most momentum are those that understand these consumers and deliver shopping experiences that are convenient and enjoyable.”
Miniso, a Chinese variety store whose products include stuffed animals, snacks and home goods, snagged the top spot in this year’s ranking, also making it onto the NRF’s list for the first time. The chain's U.S. sales grew nearly 53% between 2024 and 2025, according to NRF, reaching $466 million in total U.S. retail sales last year.
The growth follows a concerted expansion effort after the retailer sought to add about 100 locations to its 156-store fleet. Now, Miniso has more than 300 locations.
Dick’s Sporting Goods came in second on the NRF rankings with 48.5% sales growth, following its $2.4 billion Foot Locker acquisition. The Pennsylvania-based retailer was followed by Japan’s Daiso Sangyo, which landed in the U.S. around 2005, with 25.8% sales growth.
Ireland’s Primark slipped two spots in this year’s ranking, coming in at No. 4 with 24% sales growth, although the low-cost clothing retailer is still adding to its U.S. footprint after announcing a new CEO earlier this year.
Ollie’s Bargain Outlet, drugstore CVS and Japanese general store Muji were some of the retailers that gained the most ground on this year’s list, all landing in the top 10. For CVS, which spent a few years shrinking its physical presence in response to evolving shopping habits, the growth comes as the pharmacy chain leans into small-format, pharmacy-only locations.