Big Lots to Reopen 132 Stores Across 14 States Next Month

Columbus, Ohio — Discount retail chain Big Lots announced on April 28 that it will reopen 132 stores across 14 states in two phases, starting May 1 and continuing on May 15. This comeback follows a bankruptcy filing and liquidation sale last year.

The new owner, Variety Wholesalers, purchased the locations as part of its acquisition of Big Lots after the company declared bankruptcy in September 2024. ‘We’re excited to bring an additional 132 Big Lots! locations back to life in May,’ said Lisa Seigies, president and CEO of Variety Wholesalers, in a press release. ‘The customer response to the newly expanded assortment of fresh inventory and great deals has been overwhelmingly positive.’

The company stated that the stores would provide a range of products, including family apparel and home essentials. The reopening is part of a four-phase revitalization strategy aimed at increasing access to Big Lots’ offerings.

The first wave of store openings will take place on May 1, followed by the second wave on May 15. The stores will include locations in various states, such as Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Seigies expressed pride in her team for bringing the stores back to the communities. ‘I couldn’t be prouder of the dedicated team who made it possible for us to serve these communities again!’ she added.

This reopening follows efforts earlier in April, when several locations were opened as part of the company’s recommitment to its customers.