Five Blow brings in retail vet to back 3,500-store goal

Philadelphia – Five Below, the valued-oriented lifestyle retailer targeting tweens, has tapped a seasoned retail exec to lead the operational performance at the growing network of nearly 2,000 stores.

Rodney Lastinger joined the company as chief retail officer on June 22.

Most recently, he served as chief operating officer at GNC, where he directed operations across more than 2,200 franchise and corporate stores nationwide. Prior to GNC, Lastinger served as president of retail at Conn’s Home Plus, leading all company operations including stores, supply chain, merchandising, in-home sales and service, and real estate. Earlier in his career, he spent 18 years at Target Corporation, rising through roles of increasing responsibility to become SVP of stores.

“I have long admired Five Below‘s unique ability to connect with its core customer through trend-right product at exceptional value in a fun store experience,” said Lastinger.

Five Below has been on a streak. The chain ended fiscal year in February with roughly 1,920 stores after opening 150 net new locations in 2025. The company plans to add another 150 stores this year, and long-term plans call for 3,500 locatons.

Last year, Five Below’s, comparable sales jumped 12.8%, with fourth-quarter comps surging 15.4. Full-year net sales jumped 23% to $4.76 billion, with Q4 sales alone up 24.3% year-over-year to $1.73 billion.

Rodney brings exceptional operational leadership and a proven track record of driving results and building high-performing teams across large, multi-unit organizations,” said Winnie Park, CEO. “His fresh perspective and customer-focused approach will be invaluable as we continue our store expansion and further enhance our store experience.”