Home-goods retailer Bed Bath & Beyond said on 20 Aug. it will not open or operate brick-and-mortar stores in California, opting instead to serve the nation’s most populous state exclusively through its e-commerce platform. Executive Chairman Marcus Lemonis called California “one of the most over-regulated, expensive, and risky environments for businesses in America,” citing high taxes, fees and what he described as unsustainably high mandated wages as reasons for the decision. The move marks a notable retreat by the brand—owned by Beyond Inc.—from a key retail market even as it continues to run stores in nearly every other state. The company said the online-only model will allow it to maintain 24- to 48-hour delivery and same-day service in parts of California while avoiding overhead costs it regards as prohibitive for physical outlets.