Bed Bath & Beyond, Guess headline retail shakeups

This week’s retail landscape has been dominated by two big stories: Bed Bath & Beyond Guess developments. Beyond Inc. (Bed Bath & Beyond) is clashing with California over its refusal to reopen stores in the state, while Guess struck a deal with Authentic Brands Group to go private. Both stories highlight the shifting dynamics in U.S. retail, alongside other major announcements from food, apparel, and discount chains.

Bed Bath & Beyond battles California

Executive Chairman Marcus Lemonis announced that Bed Bath & Beyond will not operate physical stores in California. Instead, the company is focusing on a logistics model that emphasizes 24–48-hour delivery and same-day service in some regions. Lemonis cited California’s regulatory environment, costs, and risks as reasons for the shift.

California officials pushed back, with Gov. Gavin Newsom’s press office mocking the company on X, suggesting the retailer had lost relevance after bankruptcy. Despite the friction, Bed Bath & Beyond opened its first post-bankruptcy store in August through a partnership with Kirkland’s (now The Brand House Collective).

Guess goes private with Authentic

Guess announced a $1.4 billion deal with Authentic Brands Group that will take the fashion company private. Authentic will own 51% of Guess’s intellectual property under the agreement, while the Marciano family and Guess CEO Carlos Alberini will hold the remaining 49%.

This move allows Authentic to expand Guess into new markets and categories, making it the company’s second-largest brand by portfolio value. The deal is expected to close in Guess’s 2026 fiscal year.

Other major retail updates

Waldencast, parent of Milk Makeup and Obagi Medical, announced a strategic review while delaying its H1 earnings report.
Academy Sports and Whataburger teamed up for a tailgating collection, with co-branded jerseys, hats, shoes, and outdoor gear.
Chipotle launched a student loyalty program, Chipotle U, and partnered with Urban Outfitters for a “Little Extra” dorm collection.
Dollar Tree raised some prices to $1.50, continuing a gradual move beyond its original $1 model.
Spirit Halloween announced over 1,500 pop-up stores with an immersive subway-themed design for 2025.

Retail outlook

Back-to-school shopping is highlighting consumer caution. Analysts report softer mall traffic, tariff pressures, and selective spending patterns. Off-price retailers like Walmart appear well-positioned, with studies showing Walmart+ offers better value than Amazon Prime for many households.

The week’s events underscore how Bed Bath & Beyond Guess moves are only part of a broader transformation in retail. From store closures and strategic reviews to new loyalty programs and rising prices, companies are adapting to consumer behavior and economic pressures in ways that will shape the sector heading into 2026.