Big Lots Is Alas Hosting a Major Retail Comeback This Spring. After a Very Brief Respite Along With Significant Restructuring, the Beloved Discount Retailer Has Reopened 60 Locations on Thursday, May 1, in 12 U.S. States. It Is Just the Beginning for the Brand, Fresh Off After Nine Reopened Stores in Early April.
A full-on opening plan
This May 1 opening is just the beginning, however. Another 70 stores are set to open on the May 15 date, with more planned to launch into early June. These reopenings have followed the acquisition of Big Lots from Gordon Brothers Retail Partners, which acquired 219 store locations and two distribution centers from Variety Wholesalers.
“We’re happy on returning the Big Lots! brand to life, offering more deals than ever on a whole bunch of famous brands and an entirely new clothing department for the whole family,” stated Lisa Seigies, CEO of Variety Wholesalers, in a statement dated April 4.
A highly recommended read: How much does a hair stylist/barber earn on average in the United States in 2025 and what is the salary with allowances?
Which states are getting stores back?
The 60 stores reopening on May 1 will span the following states:
- Alabama
- Georgia
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Michigan
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Virginia
- West Virginia
Big Lots has not made a formal announcement regarding a complete lineup of cities or addresses of its stores, but information is expected here in the coming days. USA TODAY contacted the company for updates on any future waves of openings slated for the immediate future.
Highly recommend read: More than 170,000 bottles of apple juice recalled nationwide – These are the lots and products affected by the U.S. recall
New look for big lots
The stores that are coming back will not only have brand deals but also a modern shopping experience. An expanded mix of name brands and a brand-new section for apparel for all ages will be an addition on the shopping floor. This refreshed strategy seeks to bring the Big Lots experience into modern times while still keeping deep discounts consumers already love.
Other players are filling this gap
As Big Lots regains foothold, other discounters emerged to fill up its former spaces. In March, Ocean State Job Lot, a Rhode Island chain, announced it will take over 15 Big Lots locations in northeastern states, including New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and Maine.
Then, in February, Ollie’s Bargargain Outlet publicly announced it would also be acquiring 40 former Big Lots sites, extending its presence across the nation even more.
Recommended read: Hello to Trader Joe’s: 21 new stores opening across the United States: check states and cities where new stores are scheduled to open soon
More coming up
Big Lots is taking a stand with 130 plus store openings planned within just six weeks, obviously competing in the fast-growing discount retail arena. Whether your neighborhood location is returning this week or during the second phase, the message is clear: Big Lots is back and here to stay.
Want to know if your town comes on this list? Keep posted for Big Lots latest announcements or check the status of your local store online.
Recommended read: Burger King introduces a new frozen drink with Nerds candy – This is the exclusive drink you can enjoy starting April 24 with a…
