BJ’s Wholesale Club is making its Texas debut with a new location at 5901 Altamesa Blvd., near Chisholm Trail Parkway in Fort Worth. This store, part of the company’s ongoing expansion efforts, is currently under construction with an estimated project cost of $9.5 million.
This marks a significant milestone, as BJ’s has primarily operated in the Eastern United States. With this first Texas store, the company is entering a competitive market dominated by Costco and Sam’s Club.
The Transformation of Altamesa Blvd: From Open Fields to Commercial Hub
The site’s evolution over the last two decades reflects the rapid urbanization of southwest Fort Worth.
- 2001: The area was largely undeveloped, with a few residential developments to the north and vast open land surrounding Altamesa Blvd.
- 2011: Early commercial activity began appearing, and the Chisholm Trail Parkway was under construction, paving the way for increased development.
- 2022: The Parkway was fully operational, driving residential and retail growth, making the site ideal for BJ’s Wholesale Club.
The Chisholm Trail Parkway, a 27.6-mile toll road, opened in 2014 and significantly improved accessibility between Fort Worth and Cleburne. This infrastructure project made the area more attractive for major retailers, including BJ’s.
What is BJ’s Wholesale Club? A Look at Its History
BJ’s Wholesale Club is a membership-only warehouse retailer founded in 1984 in Massachusetts. The company operates over 240 locations across the East Coast, Midwest, and now Texas.
Key Facts About BJ’s Wholesale Club:
- Founded: 1984 in Medford, Massachusetts
- Headquarters: Marlborough, Massachusetts
- Number of Stores: 240+
- Primary Competitors: Costco, Sam’s Club
- Membership Tiers: BJ’s offers two main membership options – BJ’s Perks Rewards and BJ’s Inner Circle, both providing bulk savings and exclusive discounts.
BJ’s differentiates itself by offering a wider range of brands, including national name brands and its private label, Berkley Jensen. It also allows manufacturer’s coupons, something neither Costco nor Sam’s Club permits.
Why BJ’s Chose Fort Worth for Its First Texas Location
Fort Worth is experiencing rapid growth, particularly in the Chisholm Trail Parkway corridor. Several factors likely influenced BJ’s decision:
- Expanding residential communities in the area.
- Growing demand for wholesale clubs beyond Costco and Sam’s Club.
- Strategic positioning along a major toll road, increasing accessibility.
This location is expected to attract both local residents and commuters, positioning BJ’s for strong sales performance as it enters the Texas market.
Final Thoughts: What’s Next for BJ’s in Texas?
BJ’s entry into Texas could signal more locations in the future, especially in Dallas, Houston, and Austin. As construction progresses on the Altamesa Blvd. store, local shoppers will soon have a new wholesale option in Fort Worth.
Last Updated on February 9, 2025 by F. E. Mufute