BJ’s Wholesale Club, a beloved grocery chain that some say is “better than Costco,” has announced exciting plans for expansion, including a new store in Springfield, Massachusetts, later this year. This will mark the first BJ’s store opening in its home state in 13 years. The new store will be located at the site of the former Eastfield Mall, which has been closed for two years and is now being redeveloped into an open-air shopping center called Springfield Crossing.
A Significant Expansion for BJ’s
BJ’s Wholesale Club, headquartered in Marlborough, Massachusetts, has been a staple for families in the region for over 40 years. CEO Bob Eddy expressed excitement about the company’s growth in its home state, saying, “For more than 40 years BJ’s has been delivering unbeatable value to families – and that all started right here in Massachusetts.” The new store is expected to create between 100 and 150 new jobs, further contributing to the local community.
In addition to the Springfield location, BJ’s has confirmed plans for 25-30 new clubs over the next two years, including several in Texas. This expansion comes as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to increase its presence across the U.S.
Springfield Location: A New Hub for Shoppers
The new BJ’s store in Springfield is expected to generate excitement among local shoppers. Many have expressed enthusiasm on social media, with one longtime member commenting, “I’m thrilled! Been a BJ’s member for years… love this!” Others praised the opening at the revamped location, with one person noting, “It will be nice to see that area come back to life.” There were even suggestions for adding a BJ’s Tire Center and a gas station to the site, though BJ’s has yet to confirm whether these features will be included.
The new store will also help alleviate traffic congestion in nearby Chicopee, where BJ’s customers have long complained about traffic issues at the existing location.
BJ’s vs. Costco: The Ongoing Debate
The news of BJ’s expansion has reignited the ongoing debate between BJ’s and Costco fans. Some shoppers expressed a preference for Costco over BJ’s, citing its larger size and diverse product offerings. However, others praised BJ’s for offering slightly better pricing and the ability to use manufacturer coupons, which Costco does not allow.
One shopper pointed out that BJ’s carries a wider variety of popular brands and product types compared to Costco. Additionally, BJ’s has a deli counter with competitive pricing on deli meats, whereas Costco is known for its upscale, unique products. In the food court debate, Costco’s food court is often packed, while BJ’s food court tends to be quieter, though some prefer BJ’s higher-quality rotisserie chickens over Costco’s.
Strong Start to the Year
BJ’s Wholesale Club has reported a strong financial start in 2025, with an 8.1% increase in membership fee income, which reached $120.4 million. The retailer also saw a 1.6% year-over-year increase in comparable club sales. CEO Bob Eddy emphasized the company’s commitment to providing great value, saying, “Delivering great value is essential in today’s environment, and I am proud of our team members who remain committed to taking care of the families who depend on us.”
BJ’s Wholesale Club’s new store opening in Springfield, Massachusetts, is just the beginning of a larger expansion plan, with 25-30 new locations set to open in the coming years. As the chain grows and continues to compete with Costco, shoppers will be watching to see how BJ’s positions itself as a leader in the wholesale grocery market. Whether you prefer BJ’s or Costco, both chains are shaping the future of retail in the U.S.
