Bed Bath & Beyond Halts New Store Openings in California

California, August 24, 2025

News Summary

Bed Bath & Beyond has decided not to open new retail stores in California due to the state’s challenging business climate. High taxes, fees, and wages have been highlighted as key issues contributing to the difficult operational environment. This decision follows the company’s bankruptcy and subsequent store closures nationwide. Although plans for future expansion in California are on hold, Californians can still shop online, enjoying various delivery options.

California – Bed Bath & Beyond has officially announced its decision to refrain from opening or operating any new retail stores in California due to concerns regarding the state’s challenging business environment. The company’s executive chairman described California as one of the most “overregulated, expensive, and risky environments for businesses in America.” This assessment reflects a growing concern among businesses regarding the operational challenges they face in the state. The decision is said to be based on practical difficulties rather than political motivations.

Among the issues highlighted are high taxes, fees, and wages, which many businesses find unsustainable. These elements contribute to a landscape that complicates staff employment, store operation, and the ability to provide value to customers. Bed Bath & Beyond’s choice not to expand in California comes on the heels of the company’s bankruptcy in 2023, which resulted in the closure of over 300 stores nationwide. The company has since undergone a rebranding effort, launching a new physical store named Bed Bath & Beyond Home in Nashville.

Now managed by Brand House Collective, the Bed Bath & Beyond brand intends to open more physical locations in a “curated, smaller format.” However, plans for expansions in California are stalled until the business climate improves. Californians will still have access to the company’s products online at BedBathandBeyond.com, which includes 24-48 hour delivery options and same-day service for qualifying items.

The California governor’s office has responded to the criticism from Bed Bath & Beyond, indicating the state had assumed the company would remain closed after declaring bankruptcy. Moreover, this decision by Bed Bath & Beyond is part of a broader trend where various companies are relocating from California, citing the difficult business conditions as a primary factor.

Background on Bed Bath & Beyond’s Changes

Bed Bath & Beyond faced significant financial troubles leading to its filing for bankruptcy in 2023. Following this, the company made the strategic choice to close all of its retail locations and redefine its business approach. The introduction of Bed Bath & Beyond Home in Nashville marks the company’s first attempt to re-establish a physical presence after bankruptcy. The stores will be smaller in size and aimed at providing a more curated shopping experience that aligns with modern consumer preferences.

Despite the setbacks, the brand aims to maintain its service to customers through online shopping. Reports indicate that California’s labor market and business regulations are often perceived as hurdles for companies wishing to establish or expand their local presence. As such, Bed Bath & Beyond’s decision reflects broader economic trends observed within the state.

Future Prospects

Given Bed Bath & Beyond’s strategic focus on smaller store formats and cutting costs, the company’s stance on California will likely remain unchanged until perceived business conditions improve. For the time being, online consumer access will remain in place, enabling customers to engage with Bed Bath & Beyond’s offerings without the constraints of physical retail locations in California.

Summary of Key Issues

• No new Bed Bath & Beyond stores in California.
• Criticism of California’s business environment due to high operating costs.
• Company’s bankruptcy led to nationwide store closures.
• Rebranding includes a focus on smaller, curated retail formats.
• Online shopping remains available for Californians.

FAQ Section

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Los Angeles Times: Bed Bath & Beyond Won’t Reopen Stores in California
• Wikipedia: California
• CBS News: Bed Bath & Beyond Stores in California
• Google Search: California Business Environment
• The Hill: California Business Environment
• Google Scholar: California Business Regulations
• DoorDash News: Smart Reforms for CA Restaurants
• Encyclopedia Britannica: California Economy
• Fox Business: Major Retailer Says No to California
• Google News: Bed Bath & Beyond

Author: STAFF HERE BEVERLY HILLS WRITER

The Beverly Hills Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREBeverlyHills.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance, the Beverly Hills artSHOW, Concerts on Canon, and holiday celebrations throughout the city. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce and Visit Beverly Hills, plus leading businesses in luxury fashion, hospitality, and entertainment that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HERESantaAna.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERECostaMesa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.