Big Lots to Reopen 132 Stores in May 2025 Under New Ownership

2025-04-29 companies

U.S., Tuesday, 29 April 2025.
Big Lots is set to relaunch 132 stores across the U.S. this May, marking a recovery milestone post-bankruptcy. The reopening aims to boost local economies and restore market presence.

Strategic Reopenings in May 2025

Big Lots, under the ownership of Variety Wholesalers, is poised to reopen 132 stores in May 2025 across 14 states, marking a pivotal step in its recovery strategy following its Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in September 2024 [4][5]. The two-phase reopening plan commences on May 1, 2025, with nearly 60 stores, followed by an additional 73 locations on May 15, 2025 [1][5]. This staggered approach not only aims to regain market presence but also seeks to drive local economic revitalization by reintroducing Big Lots to communities across the United States [3][4].

Impact on Local Economies

The reopening of Big Lots stores is expected to stimulate consumer spending and provide local job opportunities, a necessary boost for regions affected by the closures [4][6]. Variety Wholesalers, which operates over 400 stores and acquired approximately 200 Big Lots locations earlier this year, intends to leverage its retail expertise to enhance customer engagement and expand the range of products offered [2][5]. With locations reopening in key states such as North Carolina, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, the strategy targets a mix of urban and rural areas, ensuring a wide reach and accessibility [3][7].

A New Chapter Post-Bankruptcy

After filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September 2024 due to declining consumer spending amid rising inflation, Big Lots underwent a significant restructuring process. This included Variety Wholesalers’ acquisition of Big Lots, aided by a restructuring agreement with Gordon Brothers Retail Partners in January 2025, allowing the continuation of the brand under new management [1][5]. The acquisition includes plans to operate between 200 and 400 stores, a testament to the retailer’s optimism about overcoming previous financial setbacks and repositioning itself in the competitive retail market [4].

Future Prospects and Market Positioning

With grand opening celebrations planned for fall 2025, Big Lots aims to reintegrate its brand into consumer markets by featuring expanded assortments and a new apparel department to attract diverse customer segments [2][3]. Analysts project that this strategic comeback will not only restore Big Lots’ former market share but also position it for long-term growth, building on the strong customer response seen in initial reopening phases [1][6]. These efforts highlight the chain’s commitment to offering unbeatable deals and a reinvigorated shopping experience [5][7].

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Big Lots store reopening