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.
Table of Contents
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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