California, August 24, 2025
News Summary
Bed Bath & Beyond has decided not to open any stores in California, citing high regulatory costs and risks. Instead, the retailer will focus on enhancing its online platform, promising quick deliveries. This shift follows their bankruptcy filing in 2023 and acquisition by Overstock.com, leading to a rebranding as Beyond, Inc. The decision has sparked mixed reactions among California officials, with some disputing claims about the state’s business environment. Ultimately, this transition reflects a broader trend among retailers adapting to changing consumer behaviors and economic pressures.
California – Bed Bath & Beyond has announced it will not open or operate any stores in California, marking a significant shift for the home retailer. The decision, reiterated by Executive Chairman Marcus Lemonis, is influenced by what he described as California’s “overregulated, expensive, and risky environments for businesses.” Instead of physical stores, the company plans to focus on its online platform, BedBathandBeyond.com, promising delivery within 24 to 48 hours and in some cases same-day service.
Following its bankruptcy filing in 2023 and the closure of all its nationwide stores, Bed Bath & Beyond reopened its first location, Bed Bath & Beyond Home, near Nashville on August 8, 2024. Previously, the retailer had operated over 80 locations in California. Lemonis affirmed that the strategy to bypass California was practical and not politically motivated, aligning with the growing trend amongst retailers to pivot towards digital-first models in response to an evolving business landscape.
California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office humorously responded to the announcement, implying that Bed Bath & Beyond has lost its relevance. Some California officials rebut Lemonis’s assessment, stating that the state continues to be a robust market with around 39 million potential customers. Despite differing opinions on the market conditions, many agree that the high operating costs, taxes, and labor regulations in California significantly influence business decisions.
The shift in strategy follows Bed Bath & Beyond’s recent acquisition by Overstock.com, leading to a rebrand as Beyond, Inc. This transformation focuses on an online retail business model, mirroring a broader trend among retailers adapting to changes in consumer behavior and preferences, particularly as inflation influences shopping patterns.
While Lemonis previously voiced concerns over California’s burdensome regulatory policies, Newsom has commented on the increasing number of businesses departing the state due to its high operational costs. Data from retail analysts indicate that Bed Bath & Beyond’s challenges reflect larger pressures that many retailers face, especially during significant shopping periods such as back-to-school sales.
Overall, Bed Bath & Beyond’s decision not to expand its physical presence in California serves as a crucial case study of the ongoing changes in the retail landscape and the challenges posed by regulations and economic conditions.
FAQ
Why will Bed Bath & Beyond not open stores in California?
The retailer has decided not to operate any stores in California due to high operating costs and regulatory challenges that it considers excessive and risky for businesses.
What delivery options will be available through Bed Bath & Beyond?
Bed Bath & Beyond plans to offer 24- to 48-hour delivery and, in some instances, same-day service through its online platform, BedBathandBeyond.com.
What was Bed Bath & Beyond’s status before the bankruptcy?
Prior to filing for bankruptcy in 2023, Bed Bath & Beyond operated over 80 locations in California.
How has Bed Bath & Beyond changed structurally?
Following its acquisition by Overstock.com, Bed Bath & Beyond has shifted to a new online retail-focused business model and rebranded as Beyond, Inc.
Key Features of the Bed Bath & Beyond Transition
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Decision to Avoid California Stores | Based on high costs and regulatory environment |
| Delivery Options | 24-48 hours, some same-day service |
| Bankruptcy and Rebranding | Filed for bankruptcy in 2023, rebranded as Beyond, Inc. |
| Market Presence | Previously had over 80 stores in California |
| Online Focus | Shift to digital-first model for retail |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- USA Today
- Los Angeles Times
- KMPH
- People
- The Hill
- Wikipedia: Bed Bath & Beyond
- Google Search: Bed Bath and Beyond California
- Google Scholar: Bed Bath and Beyond
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bed Bath and Beyond, Inc.
- Google News: Bed Bath and Beyond news
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange 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 OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
