FILE — Big Lots is set to reopen in Roanoke, Virginia. (WDBJ)
Big Lots is reopening a number of its stores, including several locations that have already reopened in a handful of states.
The discount chain’s new owners announced earlier this month that its first wave of reopenings includes nine stores in six states that are now under a new ownership group as part of the brand’s 2024 bankruptcy filing.
“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,” Lisa Seigies, president and CEO of Variety Wholesalers, said.
The company announced the first wave of stores that have reopened on April 10 include:
Kentucky: 1342 Indian Mound Drive in Mount Sterling.
Louisiana: 755 Veterans Memorial Boulevard in Metairie.
Mississippi: 2605 West Main Street in Tupelo and 5778 Highway 80 East in Pearl.
North Carolina: 1432 East Dixie Drive in Asheboro.
Tennessee: 1041 South Riverside Drive in Clarksville, 744 Nashville Pike in Gallatin and 220 Dickson Plaza Drive in Dickson.
Virginia: 2911 Hershberger Road Northwest in Roanoke.
Last December, Big Lots was sold to Gordon Brothers Retail Partners, a firm that specializes in distressed companies.
Variety Wholesalers Inc., which had already owned more than 400 discount stores in the U.S. Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, said it acquired hundreds of Big Lots stores and will operate them under the Big Lots brand.
“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,” Seigies said.
According to Variety Wholesalers, it will reopen the remaining acquired locations in subsequent waves, with about 55 stores in the second wave opening on May 1.
The remaining stores will open through early June and lead up to a grand opening celebration that will take place across all stores this fall.
Variety Wholesalers said it plans to reopen Big Lots stores in North Carolina, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, West Virginia and other states.
“Every time a customer visits Big Lots! we want them to find something new and exciting!” Seigies said.