Big Lots Set to Reopen 132 Stores in May
Big Lots, the well-known discount retailer, is gearing up to reopen 132 of its stores in May as part of a strategy to revitalize its presence following a bankruptcy filing last autumn. After declaring bankruptcy in September 2024 and beginning to close many of its locations, the Ohio-based company was acquired in December by Gordon Brothers Retail Partners, an asset advisory firm based in Boston.
This acquisition has led to a promising development for Big Lots, as approximately 200 to 400 locations that were originally slated for closure have transitioned to the ownership of Variety Wholesalers, another discount retail brand with over 400 stores across the United States. Notably, these stores will continue to operate under the Big Lots banner, aiming to attract customers once again.
Recent Expansions and Customer Response
The reopening of these stores follows the revival of nine Big Lots locations in April across various states, including Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. According to a spokesperson from Big Lots, this next phase of expansions is met with enthusiasm.
“We’re excited to bring an additional 132 Big Lots! locations back to life in May,” stated Lisa Seigies, CEO of Variety Wholesalers. “The customer response to the newly expanded assortment of fresh inventory and great deals has been overwhelmingly positive.”
Store Locations and Accessibility
The reopening will take place in a phased approach, with stores in 14 states slated to resume operations. Notably, a significant number of these restarts will occur in North Carolina, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, reflecting the company’s commitment to increasing accessibility for diverse shopping communities.
The move comes amidst a nationwide trend of store closures, as reported by research firm CoreSight, which noted a significant rise in closures across various sectors in 2024.
Planned Locations for Reopenings
| State | Cities |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Athens, Decatur, Dothan, Guntersville, Jasper, Mobile, Northport |
| Florida | Crystal River, Jacksonville, Marianna, Ormond Beach, Panama City |
| North Carolina | Belmont, Burlington, Fayetteville, Greensboro, Hickory |
| Ohio | Columbus, Toledo, Warren, Elyria, Grove City |
| Virginia | Chesapeake, Fredericksburg, Martinsville, Winchester, Yorktown |
| More States | Various cities in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia |
For additional details regarding store locations and further updates, customers can visit biglots.com.
As Big Lots looks to restore its brand and reach out to its community, the exciting expansion of stores reaffirms its commitment to providing affordable everyday items to a broad customer base.
