BJ’s Wholesale Club has shared five new clubs set to open this fiscal year in Indiana, Kentucky and Florida – part of an aggressive push to add 12 stores nationwide in 2026.
The new clubs will be located in:
- Frankfort, Kentucky;
- Ocala, Florida;
- Lecanto, Florida;
- Port St. Lucie, Florida; and
- Portage, Indiana.
The expansion strengthens BJ’s presence in Florida to 46 clubs and grows its footprint in the recently launched Kentucky and Indiana markets. The company is also opening four locations in the Dallas‑Fort Worth area after a successful Texas launch.
“We are committed to growing our footprint in both new and existing markets to bring the value of a BJ’s Wholesale Club to even more members,” said Bill Werner, EVP of strategy and development, BJ’s Wholesale Club.
“Coming off the strong results of our 2025 openings, the team is excited to execute on our 2026 class, deliver value and take care of the families who depend on us in these communities.”
The openings are part of BJ’s strategy to open 25-30 new clubs every two years. The company plans to maintain a similar pace through 2027-28, according to its recent earnings call.
BJ’s positions itself as a grocery‑focused warehouse club, with food and consumables accounting for 71 percent of sales. Members can save up to 25 percent off grocery store prices every day. The retailer offers fresh produce, a full‑service deli, fresh bakery items, household essentials, pet supplies and apparel. Digital conveniences include curbside pickup, same‑day delivery and ExpressPay mobile checkout.
For independent grocers, BJ’s expansion into Kentucky, Indiana and deeper into Florida puts the warehouse club in direct competition for weekly grocery trips. Unlike Costco and Sam’s Club, BJ’s uses a smaller‑pack strategy that appeals to regular grocery shoppers rather than bulk buyers. That format targets the same households that independents rely on.
In Frankfort, Portage, and the three Florida cities, independents will face a price gap that is hard to close on national brands – BJ’s claims a 25 percent savings over traditional grocery stores. However, independents can fight back through customer service, local product sourcing and niche departments such as full‑service meat, prepared foods or international goods.
Retailers who have faced BJ’s expansion in other markets report that loyalty programs, fuel perks and community engagement help retain customers. Independents should also emphasize their advantage in produce quality and variety, areas where warehouse clubs sometimes struggle with freshness and selection.
Based in Marlborough, Massachusetts, BJ’s Wholesale Club operates more than 260 clubs and 200‑plus gas locations in 22 states.
[RELATED: BJ’s Wholesale Club Continues TX Push With Fort Worth Opening]