Barnes & Noble to open 60 new stores in 2026

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Barnes & Noble Plans to Open 60 New Stores in 2026

Barnes & Noble is gearing up to start the new year strong with plans to open 60 new stores in 2026. The company, known for its wide range of products including books, music, toys, and games, as well as cafés in many locations, attributes its success to handing control of each bookstore to local booksellers.

The strategy has proven to be successful, leading to strong sales in existing stores and the opening of new locations after years of declining numbers. Barnes & Noble has confirmed leases for 2026 in various states including California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Ohio, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Washington, D.C.

The flagship Barnes & Noble store in Manhattan, New York City. LightRocket via Getty Images

Barnes & Noble said it has confirmed leases for 2026 in California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Ohio, Texas, Virginia, Washington state and Washington, DC. UCG/Universal Images Group via G

The company did not specify opening dates or exact locations of the new properties.

Founded in the early 1870s by Charles Barnes, Barnes & Noble has a rich history that dates back over a century. The bookstore was established in 1917 by Charles Barnes’ son, William, and G. Clifford Noble. Over the years, the company has grown into one of the largest booksellers in the US under the leadership of Leonard Riggio, who acquired the company in 1971.

In 2019, Barnes & Noble was acquired by hedge fund Elliott Investment Management in a deal valued at $683 million. Despite facing tough competition from online giant Amazon, Barnes & Noble continues to thrive and expand its footprint across the country.