Big Lots prepares for major store reopenings across the US

For many shoppers, Big Lots has been a favorite destination for bargain finds—from home goods and furniture to seasonal décor and everyday essentials.

After a period of uncertainty, Big Lots is making moves to reestablish its presence across the country.

With several waves of reopenings already underway and more on the horizon, customers in some states may soon find familiar storefronts welcoming them back.


Big Lots is set to reopen 60 stores across a dozen states on Thursday, May 1.

This effort follows an earlier round of reopenings on April 10, when nine locations resumed operations across six states.

The expansion will continue with another 70 stores expected to reopen on May 15.

Big Lots has indicated that additional openings will roll out into early June, as part of a broader plan to revitalize the brand’s footprint.


Screenshot 2025-04-29 at 1.31.34 AM.png
Big Lots is reopening dozens of stores across the US as part of a phased expansion plan following a recent ownership change. Image Source: YouTube / WKYC Channel 3.


A turning point for the brand​


The wave of reopenings comes after Big Lots' sale to Gordon Brothers Retail Partners.

Following that transaction, Variety Wholesalers acquired 219 stores and two distribution centers, paving the way for the brand’s revival.

According to Variety Wholesalers CEO Lisa Seigies, customers can expect a wide selection of well-known brands, more family apparel options, and the return of Big Lots’ familiar value-oriented shopping experience.


Also read: Big changes in retail could bring new shopping opportunities!

States included in the next reopening phase​


If you live in Alabama, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, or West Virginia, you may see a Big Lots reopening in your area.

Further details about store locations and future openings are still being finalized.


Source: YouTube / 11Alive.​


Also read: Is your favorite ‘80s discount chain making a comeback?

Broader changes in the discount retail landscape​


Big Lots’ transformation is occurring alongside expansion efforts by other discount retailers.

Ocean State Job Lot, based in Rhode Island, announced in March that it had acquired 15 former Big Lots locations in the Northeast.

Similarly, Ollie’s Bargain Outlet revealed plans in February to take over 40 former Big Lots sites.


These moves reflect broader shifts in the retail sector, where discount and value-driven stores are adapting to changing customer demands.

For loyal Big Lots shoppers, the reopenings offer a chance to once again browse aisles filled with bargains and discover new merchandise.

For others, it highlights the evolving nature of retail in communities nationwide.


Source: YouTube / WAVY TV 10.​


Read next: Have you heard about this new law? You could be fined up to $250 if you break it!

Key Takeaways

  • Big Lots is reopening 60 stores across 12 US states on May 1, following earlier reopenings in April.
  • Store reopenings are occurring in phases after Big Lots' sale to Gordon Brothers Retail Partners, with Variety Wholesalers acquiring many locations.
  • Another 70 stores are expected to reopen by mid-May, with further openings planned through early June.
  • Other discount retailers, including Ocean State Job Lot and Ollie’s Bargain Outlet, have acquired former Big Lots locations as part of their own expansions.

At The GrayVine, we’d love to hear your experiences. Have you shopped at Big Lots in the past? What are you hoping to find in the newly reopened stores? Share your memories and thoughts in the comments below—we look forward to hearing from you!
 
  • Love
  • Like
Reactions: Mavis and MIKKI
I miss the Big Lots stores. Loved shopping for bedding, seasonal decorations, gardening supplies, food items,personal care goodies and home furnishings. Sure hope they reopen back in Lakewood and Anaheim,CA
 
  • Love
Reactions: Veronica E.
I have missed Big Lots since it closed here in Southern Oregon. I have shopped at all of the stores with it's previous names starting way back in 1972 with "Pic N Save" and have depended on the bargains from raising my family on up until now, an aging Senior with various disabilities. I usually can stay within my budget while shopping at Big Lots and have depended on it. Now What???????? I truly hope they re-open here in Southern OR. It was the only one so ....no other options. Will keep my fingers crossed as I know others here will do too!
 
I stopped shopping at Big Lots a couple years ago. The prices had gone up so much that it was more economical for me to purchase items at stores I visit regularly anyway.
 
I miss the Big Lots stores. Loved shopping for bedding, seasonal decorations, gardening supplies, food items,personal care goodies and home furnishings. Sure hope they reopen back in Lakewood and Anaheim,CA
Thank you for sharing—sounds like Big Lots was your go-to for just about everything! We’re hoping that they bring back locations in Lakewood and Anaheim too. It would be wonderful to see those aisles full again with all the seasonal and home favorites. Fingers crossed! 🤞
 
wish we would get one here or close by. I shopped there alot
We hear you, Arkie98! It’s clear Big Lots had a loyal following. Hopefully one of the upcoming reopenings will be near you—would be great to have those familiar deals and finds back in reach again.
 
I love shopping at Big Lots, it has been difficult to find lower prices on items, I hope they reopen the store in Eastpoint the other one is too far.
Thanks for sharing! We know how tough it can be when a favorite store closes—especially one that helps stretch the budget. Fingers crossed Eastpoint is on the reopening list soon!
 
  • Like
Reactions: sadieclayladie
I have missed Big Lots since it closed here in Southern Oregon. I have shopped at all of the stores with it's previous names starting way back in 1972 with "Pic N Save" and have depended on the bargains from raising my family on up until now, an aging Senior with various disabilities. I usually can stay within my budget while shopping at Big Lots and have depended on it. Now What???????? I truly hope they re-open here in Southern OR. It was the only one so ....no other options. Will keep my fingers crossed as I know others here will do too!
Thank you for sharing your story—what a journey with the store over the years! It's clear Big Lots has been more than just a place to shop for you and so many others. We’re really hoping Southern Oregon makes it onto the reopening list soon—you’re definitely not alone in keeping those fingers crossed! 😄🤞
 
  • Like
Reactions: sadieclayladie
I stopped shopping at Big Lots a couple years ago. The prices had gone up so much that it was more economical for me to purchase items at stores I visit regularly anyway.
Totally understandable—rising prices have been tough on everyone. Hopefully, with the relaunch, Big Lots will bring back more of the great deals shoppers remember and love!
 

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Americans over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, The GrayVine is all about helping you make your money go further.

The GrayVine

The GrayVine searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for over 60's. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, we're all about helping you make your money go further.
  1. New members
  2. Jokes & Fun
  3. Photography
  4. Nostalgia / Yesterday's America
  5. Money Saving Hacks
  6. Offtopic / Everything else
  7. News & Politics

Latest Articles

Share With a Friend
Change Weather Zip code ×
Change Petrol Postcode×