Big Lots is making a major comeback. The beloved discount chain will reopen 132 U.S. stores in May 2025 under new ownership, following its bankruptcy filing last fall.
The reopening effort is led by Variety Wholesalers, which acquired 219 Big Lots locations after a failed sale to private equity firm Nexus Capital. The new owners are shifting the retailer’s focus toward apparel, household goods, and closeout deals, positioning Big Lots to compete more directly with Dollar Tree, Walmart, and Temu.
Where stores are reopening
The 132 stores reopening in May span 14 states, with North Carolina, Ohio, and Pennsylvania leading the list. Two waves are planned:
- May 1: Roughly 55 stores reopen
- May 15: A third wave continues the rollout
- Additional locations will open through early June
Some of the states with notable reopenings include:
- North Carolina: Greensboro, Wake Forest, Hickory, Fayetteville
- Ohio: Columbus, Toledo, Lancaster, New Philadelphia
- Pennsylvania: Erie, New Castle, East Stroudsburg, Du Bois
- Tennessee: Knoxville, Johnson City, Murfreesboro
- Florida: Jacksonville, Panama City, Ormond Beach
- West Virginia, South Carolina, and Alabama also have several locations reopening
What shoppers can expect
Big Lots’ new strategy includes:
- Expanded apparel sections for the entire family
- A rotating selection of name-brand closeout merchandise
- Fewer bulky furniture items
- Regular updates to inventory leading up to a national grand reopening this fall
Lisa Seigies, president and CEO of Variety Wholesalers, said the company is focused on “value, variety, and fast-turnover inventory.” She added, “Every time a customer visits Big Lots, we want them to find something new and exciting.”
How Big Lots survived bankruptcy
Big Lots filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September 2024, citing inflation, rising interest rates, and falling demand for home goods. It initially planned to close all remaining stores, but a last-minute deal with Gordon Brothers Retail Partners salvaged 219 locations.
Gordon Brothers arranged the transfer of store leases and inventory to other retailers, with most going to Variety Wholesalers.
While 132 stores are reopening in May, the future of other locations remains uncertain. Some may reopen later under different banners or be sold off permanently.
Discount retail heats up
Big Lots is returning at a time of increased pressure on American wallets. Competitors like Dollar Tree and Walmart have drawn shoppers with low prices and viral product launches.
Retail experts say Big Lots’ value-focused comeback — especially in underserved rural and suburban areas — could give it a second life.
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