Major Retailers Plan to Open Over 500 Stores Across the US in 2026

Retailers across the United States are gearing up for significant expansion in 2026, with plans to open over 500 new stores nationwide. Leading this growth are companies like Barnes & Noble, Dollar General, and Nordstrom Rack, while closures remain comparatively low, with approximately 300 closures announced so far for the year.

The surge in store openings reflects a growing trend where certain retailers are capitalizing on consumer demand for affordable products. Notably, discount chains such as Dollar General and Nordstrom Rack are thriving, suggesting that shoppers are increasingly drawn to retailers that provide competitive pricing on groceries and apparel.

Key Players in Retail Expansion

On a recent earnings call, Dollar General CEO Todd Vasos announced plans to open 450 new stores in 2026, a reduction from the 575 stores initially planned for 2025. Vasos explained, “Our competition today is really not opening a lot of stores. We don’t feel compelled to have to rush to open a lot of stores.” This strategic approach allows the company to fill vacant retail spaces left by competitors without the urgency that previously defined retail expansion.

Another retailer making significant strides is Ollie’s Bargain Outlet, which intends to open 75 new stores in fiscal year 2026. The company has reported robust foot traffic and store performance, indicating a healthy demand for its discount offerings.

In the book retail sector, Barnes & Noble plans to establish 60 new stores next year. The chain attributes its growth to a decentralized strategy that empowers local booksellers to manage their stores autonomously. Acquired by Elliott Management in 2019, Barnes & Noble is reportedly considering an initial public offering (IPO) alongside its expansion plans.

Retailers like Nordstrom Rack and Uniqlo are also making their mark. Nordstrom Rack aims to open at least 13 new stores in various states, including Massachusetts and California, while Uniqlo is set to launch 11 new locations across the US, featuring flagship stores in both Chicago and San Francisco. Uniqlo’s US CEO, Fuminori Adachi, stated, “These new stores are not only a milestone of our growth, but a way of honoring the customers who welcomed us two decades ago.”

Expanding Horizons for Other Retailers

Outdoor lifestyle brand L.L. Bean is also joining the expansion wave, with plans to open eight new stores by 2026. This initiative will increase the company’s total store count to 76 nationwide. Greg Elder, chief retail officer of L.L. Bean, emphasized the importance of physical retail in their growth strategy, saying, “Our 2026 expansion reflects our commitment to reaching more people who share our love for the outdoors.”

In the culinary sector, Benihana is set to open two new locations in 2026 as part of a broader plan to develop ten new sites over the next seven years. This initiative follows the acquisition of the restaurant chain by The One Group Hospitality in 2024.

As 2026 approaches, the landscape of American retail is poised for notable changes. While some established brands focus on digital growth, the expansion of these retailers indicates a strong consumer appetite for in-store shopping experiences. The upcoming year will be crucial in determining how these expansions will shape the retail environment across the country.