L.L.Bean details store expansion for 2026 — here’s where
L.L.Bean is accelerating its retail expansion as it expands its brand to new markets.
The outdoor apparel and gear retailer plans to open eight stores in 2026, including its first-ever locations in Alabama and Tennessee (locations listed at end of article). It plans to further accelerate its expansion in 2027, with an additional eight to 10 outposts, including first-time stores in new markets in the Midwest and Southeast.
“We continue to see physical retail as an essential part of our growth strategy,” said Greg Elder, L.L.Bean's chief retail officer. “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.”
[READ MORE: L.L. Bean CEO to depart next spring]
In addition, L.L.Bean will also debut its reimagined flagship in its hometown of Freeport, Maine in fall 2026. The $50 million project is designed to elevate the customer experience, deepen community engagement and bring the brand’s outdoor heritage to life. It also reinforces Bean’s deep connection and commitment to its hometown.
Built on Main Street, in the same location where L.L. opened his first store over a century ago, the reimagined flagship will feature:
•A more immersive customer experience and product showcase, featuring a footwear destination inspired by Maine’s mountains and trails;
•A bigger and better new multi-tier trout pond, with viewing from all sides;
•A stream tank doubled in size, with a fish bubble experience for kids and adults;
•Expanded in-store café overlooking Main Street;
•A new product personalization and customization floor where customers can personalize their favorite L.L.Bean products;
•A new children’s area that is inspired by youth summer camps in Maine and the discovery of the outdoors;
•Expanded community engagement opportunities in an enlarged Discovery Park; and
•Upgraded back-of-house functions that customers won’t see, but will experience in improved operations and service.
2026 openings
The company’s planned 2026 openings will bring its total store count to 76 stores in 21 states. The 2026 openings include:
•Huntsville, Ala. (April);
•Glen Mills, Pa. (May);
•Maple Grove, Minn. (July);
•Franklin, Tenn. (July);
•Beavercreek, Ohio (fall);
•Naperville, Ill. (fall);
•Colorado Springs, Col.(fall); and
•Ann Arbor, Mich. (fall).
