Big Lots to Reopen 132 Stores Closed During Last Year’s Bankruptcy

Big Lots to Reopen 132 Stores Closed During Last Year’s Bankruptcy

Introduction: A Major Retail Comeback in 2025
In a surprising twist in the evolving American retail landscape, Big Lots is defying the odds. After filing for bankruptcy and shuttering nearly 1,000 stores last year, the beloved discount chain is staging a dramatic return. Backed by new ownership and revitalized strategy, Big Lots plans to reopen 132 locations across 14 states, breathing life into empty storefronts and local economies.


The New Owners Behind Big Lots’ Revival

From Bankruptcy to Buyout

In September 2024, Big Lots filed for bankruptcy, leading to the closure of all its locations nationwide. Shortly afterward, the company was acquired by Gordon Brothers Retail Partners, a firm known for restructuring distressed retail brands.

Variety Wholesalers Takes the Reins

Earlier this year, Variety Wholesalers, a North Carolina-based retail group, purchased over 200 Big Lots assets from Gordon Brothers. Now, they’re spearheading the brand’s revival, with CEO Lisa Seigies confirming the reopening of 132 stores starting May 2025.

“We’re excited to bring an additional 132 Big Lots locations back to life,” Seigies said in a public statement.

The move follows the reopening of nine test stores that reportedly saw strong customer turnout and sales performance.


When and Where: Store Reopening Schedule

The reopening will occur in two phases:

  • Phase 1: May 1, 2025
  • Phase 2: May 15, 2025

Most of the revived stores are located across the South and Appalachian regions, providing renewed access to low-cost home goods, furniture, groceries, and more.


Full List of Reopening Big Lots Locations by State

Alabama

Athens, Decatur, Dothan, Guntersville, Jasper, Mobile, Northport

Florida

Crystal River, Jacksonville, Marianna, Ormond Beach, Panama City

Georgia

Augusta, Brunswick, Buford, Cornelia, Dallas, Fort Oglethorpe, Marietta, Smyrna, Valdosta, Vidalia, Waycross

Indiana

Jasper

Kentucky

Campbellsville, Danville, Elizabethtown, Glasgow, Hazard, London, Middlesboro, Richmond, Somerset

Michigan

Burton, Flint, Port Huron, Shelby Township, Southgate

Mississippi

Southaven

North Carolina

Belmont, Burlington, Clemmons, Dunn, Elizabeth City, Elkin, Fayetteville, Gastonia, Greensboro, Greenville, Hickory, Kinston, Lexington, Lincolnton, Mocksville, Mooresville, Mount Airy, Newton, Roanoke Rapids, Rocky Mount, Selma, Shelby, Southport, Statesville, Wake Forest, Wilkesboro, Wilson

Ohio

Alliance, Boardman, Bridgeport, Columbus, Elyria, Fremont, Grove City, Kettering, Lancaster, New Philadelphia, Reynoldsburg, Toledo, Warren, Wintersville

Pennsylvania

Bloomsburg, Camp Hill, Cleona, Du Bois, Dunmore, East Stroudsburg, Erie, Eynon, Franklin, Lehighton, Lewisburg, Meadville, New Castle

South Carolina

Easley, Greenwood, Lexington, Rock Hill, Seneca, Simpsonville, Spartanburg, West Columbia

Tennessee

Alcoa, Cleveland, Greeneville, Jefferson City, Johnson City, Knoxville, Morristown, Murfreesboro, Rogersville, Sevierville

Virginia

Chesapeake, Chester, Fredericksburg, Front Royal, Martinsville, North Chesterfield, North Prince George, Waynesboro, Winchester, Yorktown

West Virginia

Beckley, Bridgeport, Charleston, Elkins, Fairmont, Martinsburg, Oak Hill, Princeton

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Why This Matters: A Bright Spot in Retail’s Rough Year

While many brick-and-mortar retailers have struggled with closures and layoffs, Big Lots’ comeback offers a rare success story. Not only does it protect thousands of jobs, but it also restores shopping access for communities that often rely on budget-friendly retailers for essential goods.


Conclusion: A Bold Bet on Brick-and-Mortar Retail
Big Lots’ return is more than a retail rebound — it’s a signal that physical stores can still thrive when backed by smart ownership, responsive inventory, and community support. Whether you’re a bargain hunter or a loyal customer, Big Lots may soon be back in your neighborhood.

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