Academy Sports + Outdoors plans to open at least eight stores in 2022, in both existing markets in five states and expanding into two new states—Virginia and West Virginia.
The new stores will put the retailer's store count at 267 locations, in 18 states. Academy Sports also is evaluating additional locations for stores that could also open in 2022, reports Chain Store Age.
“Academy Sports + Outdoors is excited to begin a chapter of growth with new stores this year, making shopping with us more convenient than ever in existing markets and providing new customers with the best assortment of sports apparel, footwear, equipment and outdoor gear," said Michael P. Mullican, executive VP and CFO. "We have built a strong foundation of stores by being a fun destination that fuels sports, hobbies, and outdoor adventures."
Academy’s 2022 openings include: two stores in Atlanta; Lexington, Ky.; Panama City, Fla.; Richmond, Va.; Houston' Huntington, W.Va.; and Jeffersonville, Ind.
Founded in 1938 as a family business in Texas, Academy was acquired by private equity firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. in 2011. It filed to go public in 2020.