Big Lots Reopening More Than 70 Stores After Bankruptcy
A major retailer is making a bold return from the dead after previously announcing the closure of 800 stores.
In September 2024, Big Lots filed for bankruptcy and announced it would close all of its locations by the end of the year. However, Variety Wholesalers agreed to buy more than 200 Big Lots locations during a liquidation sale with the plan to relaunch the struggling retailer.
USA Today noted the company already re-opened nine Big Lots locations across six states in April before opening 60 more stores on May 1. The company wasn't done there, though, as it plans to open 70 more locations in the coming days - on May 15.
'We're thrilled to bring the Big Lots! brand back to life by offering more deals than ever, lots of famous brands and a new apparel department for the entire family,” Lisa Seigies, president and CEO of Variety Wholesalers said in a statement back in April.
“We’re opening stores quickly so we can serve the community. We know the stores won’t be perfect to start, but each week we’ll add more new products as we build towards the grand opening celebration in the fall. Every time a customer visits Big Lots! we want them to find something new and exciting!”
Variety Wholesalers bought 219 Big Lots locations in total and plans to have all locations open by the end of June. The company operates more than 400 stores across 18 states, with major brands like Big Lots!, Roses Discount Stores, Roses Express and Maxway.
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