In a current state of the world filled with store closures, downsizing, and bankruptcies, it’s rare to hear the words reopening and expansion. But Big Lots is defying the trend—and in a big way. The national discount retailer announced that it will reopen 60 previously shuttered locations across multiple states, breathing new life into communities that have missed the brand’s unique blend of affordability and variety.
For loyal customers who rely on Big Lots for low-cost home goods, furniture, seasonal décor, and groceries, the news comes as a welcome surprise. But beyond the store shelves, the reopenings are also creating local jobs, filling vacant commercial spaces, and signaling renewed confidence in brick-and-mortar discount retail.
Here’s what’s driving the comeback and which states are getting their Big Lots stores back.
Why Big Lots Is Reopening Stores Now
Big Lots has faced the same pressures as many other retailers in recent years: inflation, supply chain disruptions, changing shopping habits, and competition from online giants. The company closed dozens of underperforming locations in 2023 and early 2024, sparking speculation that more closures were on the horizon.
Instead, the brand pivoted. By refining its inventory strategy, renegotiating leases, and refocusing on markets where foot traffic and demand remain strong, Big Lots is now on the rebound. Executives say they’re doubling down on high-performing regions and capitalizing on areas where discount retail continues to thrive, especially in suburban and small-town America.
What Shoppers Can Expect From the Reopened Stores
The reopened Big Lots locations won’t look exactly like the ones that closed. In fact, many will feature remodeled layouts, enhanced product categories (especially in furniture and home décor), and expanded seasonal sections to meet customer demand.
Shoppers can expect:
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Refreshed store designs with easier navigation
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Larger selections of furniture and mattresses
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Budget-friendly pantry staples and cleaning supplies
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Heavily discounted seasonal and clearance merchandise
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New job opportunities in retail, management, and logistics
It’s part of the company’s broader strategy to offer more value without sacrificing the convenience and variety shoppers have come to expect.
The States Getting Their Big Lots Back
So, where are the 60 stores reopening? While not all locations have been announced publicly yet, Big Lots confirmed that the reopenings will be concentrated in areas where past customer engagement remained strong, even after closures.
The following states are confirmed to see store reopenings:
Ohio – As Big Lots’ home base, it’s no surprise that Ohio is getting multiple reopened locations. Cities that saw closures in 2023 are now on track to regain stores with updated layouts and inventory.
Texas – Known for its sprawling suburbs and strong appetite for value shopping, Texas is a key market for Big Lots. Several locations in smaller cities and mid-size suburbs will reopen.
Florida – With its rapidly growing population and retirement communities, Florida remains a high-priority state for discount retail. Expect reopened stores in both the Gulf Coast and inland areas.
Pennsylvania – Another longtime Big Lots market, Pennsylvania will see select locations return, particularly in towns where Big Lots was one of the few discount options.
Michigan – With rising demand for affordable home goods, Michigan communities that previously lost their Big Lots stores are among the first to see them return.
Tennessee and Indiana – Both states are expected to gain several locations back, especially in suburban shopping centers where demand remained high even after closures.
Big Lots is also expected to reopen stores in additional states throughout the rest of the year, based on lease negotiations and local economic data. More announcements are likely in the coming months.
Why It Matters for Local Communities
Beyond deals and discounts, reopened Big Lots stores offer something more: jobs and revitalization. Many of the stores returning are located in shopping centers that suffered after Big Lots left. Their return is a sign of confidence not just in retail but in local economies.
The reopenings are expected to generate hundreds of jobs, including store associates, managers, and logistics positions. They also offer access to affordable home essentials in areas where few options exist, especially in lower-income or rural communities.
In a time when many headlines are about stores closing or going bankrupt, Big Lots’ move to reopen physical locations is both surprising and optimistic. It’s proof that with the right strategy, discount retail still has a strong future in America.
Are you excited to see Big Lots reopening near you, or have you already spotted one preparing to open its doors again?
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