After over a century of outfitting outdoor enthusiasts from its home base in Maine, iconic retailer L.L. Bean is officially making a southern migration. The company has opened its first-ever Florida store at the Mall at University Town Center (UTC) in Sarasota, marking a milestone in the brand’s nationwide expansion.
The 17,000-square-foot store, located in the former Bed, Bath & Beyond space, celebrated its grand opening on May 9with a festive ribbon-cutting ceremony, giveaways, family-friendly activities, and a visit from the company’s famed Bootmobile.
“We’re excited to join the Sarasota community,” said Kenon Mitchell, L.L. Bean’s district manager. “This area has all the things we love—sunshine, outdoor living, and a strong appreciation for time spent in nature. It’s the perfect place for L.L. Bean to spend the winter—and stay a while.”
A Fresh Look for Florida Living
While staying true to its heritage of durable, versatile gear, the Sarasota store features merchandise tailored to Florida’s warm-weather lifestyle. Shoppers will find moisture-wicking performance wear, swimwear, breathable linen apparel, sun-protection gear, and sandals—alongside L.L. Bean classics like the Boat and Tote bag.
With over 50 stores across 18 states, L.L. Bean’s expansion into Florida reflects a broader retail trend: catering to a growing population of customers who prioritize year-round outdoor living. Florida’s unique combination of active lifestyles, coastal recreation, and tourism makes it a natural fit for the brand’s philosophy of enjoying the outdoors—rain or shine, north or south.
Giving Back to the Community
To mark its Florida debut, L.L. Bean is giving back to its new home with a $10,000 donation to the Sarasota City YMCA. The funds will help provide summer camp opportunities for underserved youth, reinforcing the company’s commitment to community engagement and outdoor access for all.
Additionally, the first 100 shoppers on both May 9 and May 10 received $50 L.L. Bean gift cards, making the opening weekend a hit with longtime fans and new customers alike.
A Natural Fit for UTC
The new Sarasota location adds to the vibrant retail mix at the Mall at University Town Center, one of Southwest Florida’s premier shopping destinations. With more than 130 retailers and restaurants, the UTC district is a hub for both locals and visitors—a strategic move for L.L. Bean as it seeks to establish a permanent foothold in the Sunshine State.
From Pine Trees to Palm Trees
L.L. Bean’s journey from Maine’s pine forests to Florida’s palm-lined boulevards may seem like a surprising shift, but it reflects the brand’s evolving identity and its belief that outdoor adventure has no seasonal limits. Whether trekking snowy trails or strolling sandy beaches, L.L. Bean is ready to outfit Floridians for life outside—however they define it.
As more Americans head south for lifestyle and leisure, it looks like L.L. Bean is happy to do the same. And if Sarasota is any indication, this snowbird just might decide to stay for good.