From value-driven formats to high-growth concepts, these retailers are actively expanding across the U.S.
Retail leasing momentum continues to favor concepts that deliver value, convenience, and strong unit economics. Across the U.S., a select group of retailers is not only growing, but doing so with consistency, speed, and clear real estate strategy.
At Regency Properties, we track expansion at the market and site level, not just the headline numbers. The retailers below represent brands showing strong leasing and continued expansion momentum, where formats are proving successful, and where brokers have an opportunity to align with active demand.
Here are six retailers currently in expansion mode that should be on every broker’s radar:
Aldi
Aldi is one of the most aggressive expansion stories in U.S. retail today, with plans to open 180+ new stores across 31 states in 2026 and a long-term goal of reaching 3,200 locations.
Their growth spans the Southeast, Midwest, and new western markets like Colorado, driven by sustained demand for low-price grocery options and a highly efficient, private-label model that resonates with cost-conscious consumers.
Five Below
Five Below continues to scale nationally, planning 150 new stores in 2026 following strong sales growth and performance across all regions and income levels.
With a flexible 8,000–10,000 SF footprint and broad appeal to younger shoppers, the brand has proven highly adaptable across both suburban and secondary markets.
Tractor Supply Company
Tractor Supply continues to invest in long-term physical store growth as demand for rural lifestyle, farm, pet, and outdoor living products remains strong. In January 2026, the company announced that its newly opened South Carolina location marked its 2,400th store nationwide and was part of a broader plan to open approximately 100 new stores throughout 2026. The retailer’s expansion strategy reflects continued confidence in community-based retail formats serving both rural and growing suburban trade areas.
Ollie’s Bargain Outlet
Value-focused retailer Ollie’s Bargain Outlet is accelerating its national expansion strategy in 2026, fueled in part by consumer demand for closeout and discount merchandise. Ollie’s plans to continue aggressive growth after opening 86 stores in 2025, with leadership targeting approximately 75 additional stores in 2026. The retailer has also capitalized on available real estate opportunities created by recent big-box closures, further strengthening its presence in underserved and secondary markets.
Dollar Tree
Dollar Tree is also scaling aggressively, with 400 planned openings as it expands both its traditional store base and multi-price format, according to Chain Store Age (CSA).
The brand’s evolution beyond the strict $1 model is unlocking new merchandising flexibility and allowing it to compete more directly across a wider range of retail categories.
Bealls
Bealls continues to expand its footprint in value-oriented and secondary markets, reflecting a broader retail trend toward necessity-driven shopping destinations. According to reporting from Business Insider, discount and off-price retailers are among the most active expanding brands in 2026 as consumers continue prioritizing affordability and convenience. Bealls’ focus on practical apparel, home goods, and everyday essentials positions the brand well for continued growth in county seat and regional trade-area communities.
These retailers reflect a consistent theme in today’s market: value-driven concepts with disciplined expansion strategies are driving retail absorption. We’re working in these markets every day, with a clear view into active requirements, site criteria, and where deals are actually moving forward. If you’re representing a landlord, have a site in mind, or are looking to align with these expanding concepts, we can help connect the dots and move opportunities from conversation to signed deal. Let’s connect and explore opportunities!
