Academy Sports + Outdoors plans 11 new stores for Q3 — here's where
Academy Sports + Outdoors is continuing to expand its store footprint nationwide.
The Texas-based sporting goods retailer opened two new stores in the third quarter, with nine more planned to debut soon (see full list later in article). To date, Academy has opened seven new stores in 2026, with plans to open a total of 20 to 25 new locations this fiscal year. Last year, the chain opened 24 new stores across 16 states.
"Our strategic growth reflects both the strength of the business and our commitment to the families and communities we serve," said Eric Friederich, senior VP of retail operations at Academy Sports + Outdoors. "With every new store, we're proud to partner with a local nonprofit organization to support kids and families by bringing more opportunities to play, connect and create meaningful moments where fun can't lose."
Combined, the 11 new stores, which span six states. are expected to bring more than 650 total new jobs to their local communities.
Academy’s third quarter store openings include:
- St. Clairsville, Ohio
- Kerrville, Texas
- Celina, Texas
- McAlester, Okla.
- Lacy Lakeview, Texas
- Fayetteville, Ga.
- Roanoke, Va.
- Statesboro, Ga.
- Granbury, Texas
- Millington, Tenn.
- Fairview, Texas
Academy is donating $65,000 to support more than 200 children through local nonprofit organizations as part of each respective grand opening celebration. Each store will celebrate with exclusive deals, giveaways, a ribbon-cutting ceremony and family-friendly fun.
At Academy locations, guests can find apparel, footwear, sports, hiking and camping equipment, hunting and fishing gear, outdoor cooking products and more from national and private label brands. Academy also offers free services such as grill and bike assembly, scope mounting, bore sighting, line winding/spooling, and propane exchange. Hunting and fishing licenses are also available to purchase in stores.
[READ MORE: Academy Sports + Outdoors rolls out one-hour delivery via Instacart]
Founded in 1938, Academy operates more than 300 stores across 21 states.
