When Kohl’s said it was closing down, the news rocked the retail industry. But while others thought it was a final closure, Big Lots viewed it as an opportunity.
Newly emerged from bankruptcy and eager for a revival, Big Lots is reopening 218 stores across the country—several of them precisely where Kohl’s left off. It’s a gamble, especially during a time when consumer spending is still uncertain and retailing is not for the faint of heart.
But Big Lots seems ready to place a large wager on itself again, based on a mix of discount deals, careful management, and a second chance that not everyone is lucky enough to get.
Big Lots’ Wild Ride: From Bankruptcy to Rebirth
The last year has not been an easy ride for Big Lots. After years of battling soft demand for furniture, persistent inflation, and a slowing housing market, Big Lots filed for bankruptcy on September 9, 2024.
The chain, which once had 1,300 stores in 48 states, had found itself in the situation of having to contract quickly. But its story did not end there.
Thanks to some assistance from Variety Wholesalers, the chain is getting a second chance, as unlikely as that is. This reopening of over 200 stores is not only survival but could be a full-blown revival if everything goes right.
Who’s Calling the Shots Now?
In case you assumed Big Lots was reopening under the same old management, think again. Variety Wholesalers — a company already seasoned in discount retailing with names such as Roses Discount and Bargain Town — picked up some of the Big Lots stores in the bankruptcy.
Now they’re the ones reviving the brand. Variety Wholesalers is no rookie player, so there’s guarded optimism that Big Lots may finally have the right management at the top. Only time will tell whether this new chapter will be the comeback that fans expect.
218 Stores and Counting: Where Big Lots Is Making Its Move
Variety Wholesalers’ newest press release suggests that a staggering 219 Big Lots stores are reopening, with 218 of those confirmed for this round.
That’s a considerable footprint being staked out all over the U.S., and it’s happening quickly. This week, nine stores are cutting their ribbons, spread across Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.
The objective? Get Big Lots back into people’s buying habits before they even notice anything was gone. It’s a tactical move, sneaking in while the memory of Kohl’s is still present in shoppers’ minds.
The First Nine Big Lots Stores Reopening April 10
Beginning April 10, 2025, consumers in six states will witness the rebirth of Big Lots. Mount Sterling, Kentucky, Metairie, Louisiana, Pearl and Tupelo in Mississippi, Asheboro, North Carolina, and three Tennessee cities — Clarksville, Dickson, and Gallatin — will all get new Big Lots stores. Roanoke, Virginia is getting one as well.
These cities are the first focus of Big Lots’ second life. It’s a strategic focus, opening in markets that combine healthy local demand with real estate being left behind by Kohl’s and other large box chains.
What’s Behind the Big Lots Revival?
Reopening stores is one thing, but thriving in a second act in retail is a whole different animal. Variety Wholesalers is banking on Big Lots’ former bread and butter — discount housewares, furniture, snacks and treats, and seasonal decor — continuing to draw in daily shoppers.
Their strategy, apparently, is a combination of old favorites, improved merchandise management and spruced-up stores. Not sexy, perhaps, but it doesn’t need to be. In a world with tighter budgets than ever, Big Lots’ promise of good stuff for less is very attractive if they consistently follow through.
A Phased Approach: Three Waves of Openings
Big Lots is not attempting to bite off too large a chunk. Variety Wholesalers has devised a three-wave reopening. Nine stores opening this week initially.
In May, another 55 locations will reopen their doors. Then, the final 155 stores will roll out through June. It’s a careful, phased approach designed to avoid the chaos of launching too much too fast.
Plus, each wave gives the company a chance to iron out any kinks in the system. When you’re staging a comeback this big, slow and steady often wins the race.
Mark Your Calendars: Big Lots’ Grand Reopening Party
After all of the stores have reopened, Big Lots enthusiasts can expect a big party across the country. Variety Wholesalers promised a “grand opening celebration” is planned for fall 2025, just in time for the start of the holiday season.
Look for bargains, specials, and maybe a few surprises to entice old customers back — and attract some new ones, as well. Fall is ideal timing; it will allow Big Lots to simultaneously take advantage of back-to-school shopping, Halloween decorating sales and the crucial holiday season.
Can Big Lots Really Make It Work?
The chances are not in its favor, but Big Lots may have just what it takes. The economy remains weak, but consumers are hungrier for bargains than ever.
With its bargain basement origins and new ownership by Variety Wholesalers, Big Lots might be poised to occupy a niche that Kohl’s and others have abandoned.
Naturally, it will not be enough to simply reopen — customer service, merchandise quality, and advertising will need to be crisper as well. If Big Lots can learn from its previous errors and remain agile, this could be one of retail’s more improbable comeback stories.
The Bottom Line: Big Lots’ Second Chance
In a retail universe filled with cautionary tales, Big Lots is betting on a different outcome. 218 reopened stores is not trivial. Though hurdles linger — from competition to consumer fatigue — Big Lots appears intent on showing that second acts are possible.
Whether it will return to the heights it once experienced, or forge a leaner but profitable niche, is yet to be determined. In any case, one thing is certain: Big Lots will not slip quietly into retail oblivion just yet.
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