California, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Bed Bath & Beyond’s Executive Chairman, Marcus Lemonis, announced that the company will not open new stores in California due to regulatory challenges and high costs. Instead, the brand will focus on online shopping for California residents, offering delivery within 24 to 48 hours. Lemonis highlighted concerns over California’s business environment, including high taxes and elevated minimum wage. While the company plans to open approximately 300 smaller stores across the U.S., none will be located in California. This decision reflects a broader trend of businesses reassessing their operations in the state.
California – Bed Bath & Beyond’s Executive Chairman Marcus Lemonis announced that the company will not open any new store locations in California due to the state’s regulatory hurdles, which he described as “overregulated, expensive, and risky.” This decision comes as Lemonis is leading the company’s efforts to rebuild its presence following a tumultuous period that included filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and closing all its stores in 2023.
The company recently marked a new beginning by launching its first Bed Bath & Beyond Home store in Nashville, Tennessee, on August 8, 2025. Despite seeking suggestions from his 1.3 million Instagram followers on potential new locations, Lemonis clarified that California would not be among them when he made this announcement on August 20, 2025.
Lemonis pointed out that California’s business environment poses numerous challenges, including high taxes, soaring fees, and elevated wages, which he noted as significant barriers for businesses aiming for growth. Specifically, the state’s minimum wage stands at $16.50 per hour, contributing to its ranking as the most difficult state to start a business.
Although Bed Bath & Beyond will not have physical stores in California, customers will still have access to its products through its online platform, with deliveries available within 24 to 48 hours. This measure aims to ensure that consumers in California can continue to enjoy Bed Bath & Beyond’s offerings despite the lack of physical storefronts.
Before its bankruptcy in 2023, Bed Bath & Beyond operated over 300 locations. The brand is now under the ownership of Beyond Inc., which also encompasses buybuy BABY and Overstock.com. Leveraging his expertise in business transformation, Lemonis intends to implement a plan that includes opening approximately 300 smaller retail locations across the United States over the next two years. However, the state of California will not be on the list for new store openings.
Lemonis’s decision resonates with a growing trend observed among various companies that are choosing to relocate their operations away from California, citing an environment perceived as unfavorable for business. This sentiment is echoed by Brightpoint Ventures, which recently announced its move from California to Florida, indicating broader concerns about the business climate in the state.
In response to Lemonis’s statements, an official from California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office expressed surprise at Bed Bath & Beyond’s attempt to regain relevance after its bankruptcy. The reaction reflects the ongoing challenges and scrutiny that businesses face in California as they navigate a complex regulatory landscape.
Background Context
Bed Bath & Beyond, known for its wide range of home goods and products, has faced significant challenges over the years, compounded by changing consumer behaviors and fierce competition in the retail market. The company’s past financial struggles culminated in its bankruptcy filing in 2023, leading to the closure of its vast network of stores.
As Lemonis moves forward with a strategic plan focused on smaller store formats and online sales, his approach signifies a shift in how retailers may operate in today’s evolving market landscape.
FAQ
What prompted Bed Bath & Beyond to avoid opening stores in California?
Marcus Lemonis cited California’s overregulated, expensive business environment as a significant barrier to success, including high taxes and wages.
What options do California residents have for Bed Bath & Beyond products?
Residents can purchase products online, with deliveries available within 24 to 48 hours.
How many stores does Bed Bath & Beyond plan to open in the next two years?
The company plans to open around 300 smaller store locations across the U.S., but none in California.
What is the current minimum wage in California?
The minimum wage in California is currently $16.50 per hour.
How did Bed Bath & Beyond perform before its bankruptcy?
Prior to its bankruptcy in 2023, Bed Bath & Beyond operated over 300 retail locations.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Executive Chairman | Marcus Lemonis |
| First New Store Location | Nashville, Tennessee |
| Date of First New Store | August 8, 2025 |
| California Store Plans | No new stores due to regulatory challenges |
| Online Shopping Availability | Yes, with deliveries in 24 to 48 hours |
| Previous Store Count | Over 300 before bankruptcy |
| Current Ownership | Beyond Inc. (also owns buybuy BABY and Overstock.com) |
| Future Store Openings | Approximately 300 smaller stores in the U.S. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- USA Today
- Wikipedia: California
- San Francisco Chronicle
- Google Search: Bed Bath & Beyond
- Forbes
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Retail
- KOMO News
- Google News: Bed Bath & Beyond California
- MSN
- Google Scholar: Bed Bath & Beyond
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego 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 Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
