Big Lots to Close 500 Stores Nationwide, Including 23 in Ohio

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Big Lots, the Columbus-based discount retailer, is set to close approximately 500 stores across the U.S., including 23 in Ohio, as part of its bankruptcy restructuring. The closures come after Boston-based investment firm Gordon Brothers acquired the struggling chain and announced plans to sell leases for hundreds of locations.

Gordon Brothers, which purchased Big Lots out of bankruptcy, revealed a 12-page document listing stores nationwide where leases are up for sale. The firm plans to transfer 200 to 400 stores to Variety Wholesalers, a North Carolina-based operator of dollar store brands like Roses. Variety Wholesalers may also acquire up to two former Big Lots distribution centers and retain some employees.

As of Wednesday, Big Lots operated 901 stores in 47 states, with Ohio housing the most locations at 83. Texas (78 stores), Florida (68), North Carolina (65), Pennsylvania (64), and New York (49) follow closely behind. The closure of 500 stores would reduce the chain’s footprint by more than half.

Big Lots filed for bankruptcy protection on Sept. 9, citing inflation and high interest rates as key factors impacting its customer base. Initially, Los Angeles-based Nexus Capital Management agreed to purchase most of the company’s assets, but the deal fell through in December, leading to Gordon Brothers’ involvement.

Prior to the latest announcement, Big Lots had already shuttered over 400 stores nationwide, including 20 in Ohio. The company also closed a Columbus distribution center in September, displacing 379 workers. Employees were compensated through Nov. 3.

In Western Pennsylvania, the future of several Big Lots locations remains uncertain. Stores in Allegheny Township, North Versailles, West Mifflin, and Whitehall are among those listed for lease transfer. However, about 20 other locations in the region, including those in Harrison, Hempfield, and Monroeville, may remain open under Variety Wholesalers’ ownership.

Big Lots President and CEO Bruce Thorn described the deal as the “strongest opportunity to preserve jobs, maximize value for the real estate, and ensure continuity of the Big Lots brand.” Despite the closures, the company’s website continues to advertise storewide discounts of up to 40%, signaling ongoing liquidation sales.

Messages seeking comment from Gordon Brothers and Variety Wholesalers regarding specific store locations were not immediately returned.