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Big Lots Returns With a Fresh Retail Strategy

After filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September 2024, Big Lots closed hundreds of locations and scaled back operations. In January 2025, Variety Wholesalers purchased 219 Big Lots stores and two distribution centers, initiating a gradual relaunch plan.

The company tested the waters with nine pilot store reopenings in April, which received strong customer turnout. Based on that success, a broader rollout is now underway. The relaunch will occur in two phases:

  • May 1, 2025: 54 stores reopen

  • May 15, 2025: 78 additional stores reopen

By the end of May, 132 locations will be back in business.

Big Lots Reopening 132 Stores After Bankruptcy
Big Lots Reopening 132 Stores After Bankruptcy

Big Lots’ Comeback Strategy: What It Means for Shoppers

This massive reopening is part of Variety Wholesalers’ broader retail revival strategy, betting on regional markets and everyday low pricing. Analysts say the refreshed Big Lots may appeal to shoppers looking for affordable essentials amid inflation and rising grocery costs.

The chain's pivot away from perishables also reduces operational complexity and waste, allowing stores to focus on high-margin, fast-selling categories like clothing, seasonal goods, snacks, and home decor.

What’s New in the “Reimagined” Big Lots Stores?

The reopened Big Lots stores are keeping the brand name but introducing a simplified shopping experience. Key changes include:

  • Smaller furniture sections to make room for faster-turnover products

  • Expanded clothing departments targeting value-focused families

  • No more perishable groceries – the stores will focus only on shelf-stable snacks and beverages

  • Streamlined store layouts for easier navigation and faster shopping

While Big Lots was once known for closeout grocery items, fresh food and perishables are no longer part of the business model. This marks a sharp turn from the company's pre-bankruptcy plans to grow its grocery offering.

“We’re excited to bring 132 Big Lots stores back to life this May,” said Lisa Seigies, CEO of Variety Wholesalers. “Customers are responding well to our expanded selection, cleaner layout, and unbeatable value.”

Full List: States and Cities Where Big Lots Is Reopening

Here is the complete list of cities by state where Big Lots will reopen in May 2025:

Alabama

Athens, Decatur, Dothan, Guntersville, Jasper, Mobile, Northport

Florida

Crystal River, Jacksonville, Marianna, Ormond Beach, Panama City

Georgia

Augusta, Brunswick, Buford, Cornelia, Dallas, Fort Oglethorpe, Marietta, Smyrna, Valdosta, Vidalia, Waycross

Indiana

Jasper

Kentucky

Campbellsville, Danville, Elizabethtown, Glasgow, Hazard, London, Middlesboro, Richmond, Somerset

Michigan

Burton, Flint, Port Huron, Shelby Township, Southgate

Mississippi

Southaven

North Carolina

Belmont, Burlington, Clemmons, Dunn, Elizabeth City, Elkin, Fayetteville, Gastonia, Greensboro, Greenville, Hickory, Kinston, Lexington, Lincolnton, Mocksville, Mooresville, Mount Airy, Newton, Roanoke Rapids, Rocky Mount, Selma, Shelby, Southport, Statesville, Wake Forest, Wilkesboro, Wilson

Ohio

Alliance, Boardman, Bridgeport, Columbus, Elyria, Fremont, Grove City, Kettering, Lancaster, New Philadelphia, Reynoldsburg, Toledo, Warren, Wintersville

Pennsylvania

Bloomsburg, Camp Hill, Cleona, Du Bois, Dunmore, East Stroudsburg, Erie, Eynon, Franklin, Lehighton, Lewisburg, Meadville, New Castle

South Carolina

Easley, Greenwood, Lexington, Rock Hill, Seneca, Simpsonville, Spartanburg, West Columbia

Tennessee

Alcoa, Cleveland, Greeneville, Jefferson City, Johnson City, Knoxville, Morristown, Murfreesboro, Rogersville, Sevierville

Virginia

Chesapeake, Chester, Fredericksburg, Front Royal, Martinsville, North Chesterfield, North Prince George, Waynesboro, Winchester, Yorktown

West Virginia

Beckley, Bridgeport, Charleston, Elkins, Fairmont, Martinsburg, Oak Hill, Princeton

What’s Next?

The final phase of reopenings is expected in June, bringing the total to 219 active Big Lots locations under the new ownership. As the company moves forward, it’s positioning itself as a key player in the discount retail space—especially in underserved or rural markets.

Customers looking to confirm reopening dates or store hours can visit the official Big Lots store locator for updates.

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