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What’s driving a wave of planned store openings in 2026

While last year saw the collapse of chains like Joann and Rite Aid, 2026 is expected to be a brighter year in retail as store openings accelerate.

Coresight Research estimates U.S. retailers will open about 5,500 new stores this year (up 4.4% year over year) and close about 7,900 stores (a 4.5% drop year over year), CNBC reported. Dollar General, Aldi, Tractor Supply, Barnes & Noble and Target, among others, are planning to open the most new stores in 2026, according to Coresight.

The companies opening stores this year reflect strengths in categories like discount apparel, discount grocery and specialty retail despite a challenging financial environment.

Aldi, Barnes & Noble, Target to open new stores in 2026

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