2 of the Best Retail Stocks to Buy in 2026

The Motley Fool highlights Costco (COST) and TJX Companies (TJX) as two of the best retail stocks to buy in 2026, arguing both are resilient plays amid inflation and consumer pressure. Costco’s membership renewal (89.7% in fiscal Q3) and 6.6% same-store sales growth, plus steady warehouse expansion, underpin its durable sales and operating-income gains. TJX benefits from discounted inventory sourcing, driving an 8% quarter-on-quarter comp in Q1, a 31.3% gross margin (up 1.8 points) and 29.3% EPS growth to $1.19. The piece frames these names as defensive, high-quality retail exposures likely to attract investors seeking durable sales growth and margin resilience in a challenging consumer environment.