Variety Wholesalers revives 132 Big Lots stores in 14 states

In the United States, the discount retail chain Big Lots has announced a significant reopening of 132 stores across 14 states, set to take place in May 2025. This initiative follows the chain's filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September 2024, which led to the acquisition of 219 of its locations by Variety Wholesalers. The acquisition deal was finalized in January 2025, allowing Variety Wholesalers to implement a revitalization strategy aimed at restoring Big Lots to its former status in the retail market. The planned resurgence of the retail locations will occur in two phases: the first wave on May 1 and the second on May 15, 2025. Following the preliminary reopening of several stores just a month prior, this new rollout is positioned as part of a broader revitalization strategy that focuses on improving customer experience through fresh inventory and wide-reaching offers. Lisa Seigies, the president and CEO of Variety Wholesalers, expressed enthusiasm regarding the customer response and the success of the new inventory mix in her statements about the reopening. The newly acquired stores are located across various states, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. The areas affected will see the return of multiple store locations, allowing local communities to reacquaint themselves with Big Lots' product offerings. The revival of these stores marks not just a return to retail but also signals promise for job creation and economic support in the surrounding areas, following a period of instability for the company. With this announcement, Variety Wholesalers positions itself as a significant player in the retail landscape, showcasing its commitment to revitalizing acquired brands while addressing community needs. The overall strategy demonstrates a proactive response to customer demand and an understanding of the market, as consumer behavior evolves post-pandemic. Ultimately, this reopening could signify the beginning of a new era for Big Lots, strengthening its presence in the discount retail sector and contributing positively to the local economies it serves.