Amazon has filed official development plans for a massive retail location in the Chicago suburb of Naperville, marking its first major physical store expansion in the region. The proposed facility would exceed 200,000 square feet, surpassing the size of a typical Walmart Supercenter.
- Amazon submitted plans for a 200,000+ sq ft retail store in Naperville, IL
- Larger than a typical Walmart Supercenter (150,000–180,000 sq ft)
- First major Amazon physical store in the Chicago metropolitan region
- Expected to generate over 500 permanent jobs upon opening
- Construction may begin in mid-2026 pending local approvals
- Will feature Amazon Fresh, electronics, home goods, and device displays
Amazon has formally submitted construction plans for a new large-format retail store in Naperville, Illinois, a major suburban hub just west of Chicago. The proposed location would span over 200,000 square feet, making it the company’s largest brick-and-mortar store to date in the Midwest. This development represents Amazon’s first significant physical retail presence in the Chicago metropolitan area, signaling a strategic pivot toward expanding its offline footprint in key urban corridors. The scale of the proposed store—exceeding 200,000 square feet—surpasses the average Walmart Supercenter, which typically occupies between 150,000 and 180,000 square feet. The facility is expected to integrate Amazon’s existing retail offerings, including Amazon Fresh grocery services, Amazon Basics, and a dedicated electronics and home goods section. It may also feature in-store pickup zones, customer service hubs, and a dedicated space for Amazon devices and smart home technology. The project has prompted early attention from local officials and community stakeholders. The Naperville City Council is scheduled to review the zoning and environmental impact reports in early 2026, with construction anticipated to begin mid-year if approvals are granted. Local economic development leaders have noted the potential for the store to generate over 500 permanent jobs and stimulate ancillary commercial activity in the surrounding area. Market analysts view the move as a sign of Amazon’s renewed confidence in physical retail, particularly in high-density metropolitan regions. The Naperville location is expected to serve a population base of over 1.2 million residents across Cook, DuPage, and Will counties. If completed, the store could become a model for future Amazon large-format locations in other major U.S. metropolitan areas.