L.L.Bean Expands Retail Footprint With Eight New Stores in 2026 and More Planned for 2027

L.L.Bean is gearing up for a significant retail expansion. The outdoor lifestyle brand revealed that it will open eight new stores in 2026, marking its first-ever locations in Alabama and Tennessee. Looking ahead, the company plans to keep the momentum going with eight to ten additional storefronts in 2027, including entries into new Midwest and Southeast markets.

Expanding Physical Retail With Purpose

According to Greg Elder, L.L.Bean’s chief retail officer, physical retail remains at the heart of the brand’s long-term growth strategy. He emphasized that many customers still value immersive, in-person shopping experiences , especially for outdoor goods that consumers want to feel, test, and explore.

“We continue to see physical retail as an essential part of our growth strategy,” Elder explained. “Our 2026 expansion reflects our commitment to reaching more people who share our love for the outdoors. By thoughtfully entering new markets and investing in meaningful, experience-driven stores, we’re purposefully meeting customers where they are and creating more opportunities to connect with L.L.Bean.”

Where L.L.Bean Is Opening in 2026

With the addition of these eight new stores, L.L.Bean will soon reach 76 total storefronts across 21 states. The 2026 openings include:

• Huntsville, Alabama – April

• Glen Mills, Pennsylvania – May

• Maple Grove, Minnesota – July

• Franklin, Tennessee – July

• Beavercreek, Ohio – Fall

• Naperville, Illinois – Fall

• Colorado Springs, Colorado – Fall

• Ann Arbor, Michigan – Fall

These locations were chosen strategically to expand customer reach and strengthen the brand’s presence in both established and emerging outdoor markets.

A Reimagined Flagship Coming in 2026

In addition to the new stores, L.L.Bean will introduce a reimagined flagship store in Freeport, Maine, its iconic hometown, set to debut in Fall 2026. The company is investing $50 million into the renovation, which aims to:

• Elevate the in-store experience

• Deepen community connection

• Celebrate the brand’s outdoor heritage

• Reinforce L.L.Bean’s longtime commitment to Freeport

This revitalized flagship is expected to become a central destination for customers, locals, and outdoor enthusiasts visiting Maine.

Looking Ahead to 2027

Beyond 2026, L.L.Bean is not slowing down. The company plans to roll out eight to ten additional stores in 2027, reaching new markets across the Midwest and Southeast. These expansions highlight the company’s confidence in brick-and-mortar growth, especially as experiential retail continues to increase in value for both brands and customers.

A Strategy Rooted in Outdoor Culture and Customer Experience

Overall, L.L.Bean’s expansion underscores its mission: to connect more people with the outdoors, one experience-driven store at a time. Through careful market selection, substantial investment, and a continued focus on community-building, the brand is positioning itself for a strong next chapter in retail.