If you thought Big Lots was done for after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in late 2024, think again. In a surprising twist, the beloved discount chain is bouncing back — big time. Thanks to a fresh deal with Nexus Capital Management, Big Lots is not just surviving, it is thriving. The retailer has announced it will open 133 new stores across the U.S. this May, in addition to 9 that already opened earlier in April.
Lisa Seigies, president and CEO of Variety Wholesalers, shared in a press release, “We’re thrilled to revitalize the Big Lots! brand with more offerings than ever, many top brands, and a new clothing section for the entire family.” If you are a fan of bargains, this is definitely good news for your wallet.
What states will get new Big Lots stores?
If you are wondering whether a new Big Lots is opening near you, here is what you need to know. The expansion kicks off on May 1st and May 15th, hitting more than a dozen states coast-to-coast.
Stores opening May 1st include:
- Alabama: Athens, Decatur, Dothan, Mobile
- Georgia: Augusta, Brunswick, Cornelia, Fort Oglethorpe, Valdosta, Waycross
- Indiana: Jasper
- Kentucky: Danville, Elizabethtown, Glasgow, Richmond
- Michigan: Burton, Flint, Shelby Township
- North Carolina: Clemmons, Elkin, Gastonia, Hickory, Kinston, Mocksville, Mount Airy, Newton, Roanoke Rapids, Rocky Mount, Southport, Wake Forest, Wilkesboro
- Ohio: Alliance, Bridgeport, New Philadelphia, Reynoldsburg, Warren, Wintersville, Youngstown
- Pennsylvania: Dunmore, Eynon, Lewisburg
- South Carolina: Easley, Rock Hill, Simpsonville, Spartanburg
- Tennessee: Cleveland, Knoxville, Murfreesboro, Rogersville
- Virginia: Chesapeake, Front Royal, Martinsville, Waynesboro, Winchester
- West Virginia: Bridgeport, Charleston (two locations), Elkins, Fairmont, Martinsburg
Stores opening May 15th include:
- Alabama: Cullman, Guntersville, Jasper, Northport
- Florida: Callaway, Crystal River, Jacksonville, Marianna, Ormond Beach
- Georgia: Buford (and more to be confirmed)
With these additions, the total store count from this reopening push will hit 142 by mid-May.
Is Big Lots changing what it sells?
Yes, and this is huge if you love variety. Big Lots is not just reopening the same old stores — they are giving them a facelift. The chain is rolling out expanded departments, especially in clothing, which is something the brand has not been known for in the past. It is also adding more name-brand items at affordable prices, so you will find more value for your money without having to hunt too hard.
So if you have not visited a Big Lots in a while, expect a new layout, more recognizable brands, and new product categories aimed at making the stores a one-stop shop for your home and family.
Will there be job openings at the new Big Lots locations?
Absolutely. With over 130 stores opening, Big Lots is creating hundreds of new jobs across the country. From store associates to management roles, this expansion could be a great opportunity if you are looking for work in retail. Keep an eye on Big Lots’ official careers page for listings in your area as opening dates get closer.
