California, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Bed Bath & Beyond will not be opening new retail locations in California due to significant regulatory challenges highlighted by the company’s executive chairman. Despite the brand’s revival efforts post-bankruptcy, the high costs and business environment in California have led to the decision. Instead, the company plans to focus on smaller locations nationwide and has already opened its first Home store in Nashville. California residents can still access their products online, but the state remains a challenging market for new businesses.
California is set to miss out on new retail locations from Bed Bath & Beyond, as Marcus Lemonis, the executive chairman of the company, declared on August 20, 2025, that no new stores will open in the state. Lemonis cited intense regulatory challenges as the primary reason for this decision, highlighting California’s business environment as overly regulated, expensive, and risky for potential growth.
The news comes after the company’s recent efforts to revive its brand following a significant setback. Bed Bath & Beyond had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and closed all its stores in 2023. In its prime, the brand operated over 300 locations. As part of the company’s comeback strategy, Bed Bath & Beyond opened its first Home store in Nashville, Tennessee, marked on August 8, 2025. This opening serves as a sign of the company’s new direction under Lemonis, who has a notable history of rejuvenating businesses, particularly through his television show “The Profit.”
Lemonis took to social media to engage with the public about future store locations, asking his 1.3 million Instagram followers for suggestions on where the next Bed Bath & Beyond store should open. However, he ultimately ruled out California, emphasizing that the state’s high taxes, fees, and stringent regulations create an unfriendly business climate. He also pointed out that California’s minimum wage is currently set at $16.50 per hour, making it one of the most expensive states to start a business.
For customers in California, the company assures that they will still have access to Bed Bath & Beyond products through online purchases, with delivery options available within 24 to 48 hours. Even though physical retail locations will not be established, online shopping will remain an option for California residents.
The statement from Lemonis aligns with a growing trend among businesses relocating their operations away from California due to similar concerns regarding the regulatory landscape. Recently, Brightpoint Ventures, another major business, announced its decision to move from California to Florida, echoing Lemonis’ assertions about the state’s anti-business environment.
In response to Lemonis’ remarks, California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office expressed surprise at the company’s revival efforts. Despite resistance from certain sectors, Bed Bath & Beyond plans to expand across the U.S. with approximately 300 smaller locations planned over the next two years, effectively bypassing California.
This business strategy indicates a potential shift in retail expansion, reflecting a preference for states perceived to have a more favorable business climate. As businesses have started prioritizing locations with lower regulatory hurdles, this trend raises questions about California’s standing as a robust retail hub.
Summary Points
- Bed Bath & Beyond will not open new stores in California due to regulatory challenges, as announced by executive chairman Marcus Lemonis.
- The company has recently opened its first Home store in Nashville and plans to establish around 300 smaller locations nationwide.
- California remains a challenging state for new business operations due to high taxes, an expensive workforce, and extensive regulations.
- Consumers in California can still purchase products online, with prompt delivery services available.
FAQ Section
Why will Bed Bath & Beyond not open stores in California?
Bed Bath & Beyond has decided against opening stores in California due to the state’s regulatory challenges that make it difficult for businesses to succeed.
What changes have occurred at Bed Bath & Beyond since its bankruptcy?
The company has launched efforts to revitalize its brand, including opening its first Home store in Nashville and planning to establish around 300 smaller locations throughout the U.S.
What alternatives do California residents have for accessing Bed Bath & Beyond products?
California residents can still order products online, with delivery options available within 24 to 48 hours.
What is the minimum wage in California currently, and how does it affect businesses?
The current minimum wage in California is $16.50 per hour, which contributes to the overall higher operational costs for businesses in the state.
Key Features of Bed Bath & Beyond’s Recent Decisions
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location Plans | No new stores in California; 300 small locations planned throughout the U.S. |
| Opening Date | First Bed Bath & Beyond Home store opened on August 8, 2025, in Nashville. |
| Online Availability | Delivery of online orders within 24 to 48 hours for California residents. |
| Challenges Faced | High taxes, fees, wages, and extensive regulations in California. |
| Historical Context | Company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2023, closing over 300 locations. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- USA Today
- San Francisco Chronicle
- KTLA
- Forbes
- Newsweek
- Wikipedia: California
- Google Search: California business regulations
- Google Scholar: retail in California
- Encyclopedia Britannica: 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.
