These discount retailers will open hundreds of stores in 2026 — meeting demand as cash-strapped shoppers beg for bargains

What’s in store for 2026?

With more than 8,000 chain stores shutting up shop across America in 2025, brick-and-mortar retail remains a risky endeavor in the face of tariffs and inflation.

But amid economic uncertainty, many bullish businesses are forging ahead with plans to open hundreds of new locations in the US this year.

Research by Coresight, published by CNBC, found that Dollar General is the franchise slated to have the most new store openings in America in 2026.

The company already operates a staggering 20,901 outlets across 48 states and plans to open an additional 483 outposts this year.

Meanwhile, German supermarket giant Aldi is forging ahead with its aggressive expansion in the US, with plans to open 168 new locations in 31 states in 2026.

While the first Aldi opened in America 50 years ago, the retailer has swiftly increased its store count since the COVID pandemic.

The fact that Dollar General and Aldi are both discount retailers rapidly expanding their reach in 2026 speaks to shoppers’ increasing focus on affordability amid runaway inflation.

Elsewhere, there are some surprising companies opening dozens of new stores in 2026.

Tractor Supply plans to open 100 new locations this year, with Forbes claiming the company is “the next decade’s retailer to watch.”

The chain’s garden centers, increasing focus on pets and pet supplies, and its loyalty program have been key to its major growth, Retail Dive reports.

Meanwhile, Barnes & Noble says 60 new stores are slated to open across America this year — an almost 10% increase on the 667 outlets already in operation.

The book giant was considered to be on the brink of bankruptcy just a decade ago, before a surprising turnaround.

A renewed focus on a personalized book-buying experience, tailored to each store’s community, has seen the company reverse its fortunes, PBS reported last month.

Additionally, Target, Dollar Tree and Casey’s each plan to open dozens of new locations in 2026.

But while business may be booming for some, many other companies are continuing to shutter stores.

GameStop plans to close 467 of its 2,100 locations this year, per the Coresight study.

Womenswear chain Francesca’s will close all 457 of its stores, while Walgreens plans to pull the pin on 350 of its 7,960 outlets.

Below, the companies with the most new stores set to open this year.