Variety Wholesalers is set to reopen 54 Big Lots stores in 12 states on May 1, following the retailer's Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September 2024. After declining sales led to the filing, the liquidation firm Gordon Brothers took control, anticipating full closure. In December, Variety Wholesalers secured a deal to take over at least 200 leases and will operate under the Big Lots brand. The initial nine locations reopened last week, with future openings planned for June, totaling 219 stores.
The discount retailer will see another 54 store reopenings at the beginning of next month, according to Variety Wholesalers, the North Carolina-based retail company that has taken control of hundreds of Big Lots leases.
After suffering declining sales and foot traffic for years, Big Lots filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in September 2024. The company fell under the control of liquidation firm Gordon Brothers and had been expected to close every location.
However, Variety Wholesalers—which owns Roses, Super Dollar, Bargain Town, and other discount retail chains—agreed to take over at least 200 leases in a last-minute deal announced in December.
At the time of the bankruptcy, Big Lots had more than 800 locations around the country, meaning its footprint under Variety will be significantly smaller, though hopefully no less beloved by fans of discount merchandise.
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