Discount retailer Variety Wholesalers has announced the first wave of openings for newly acquired Big Lots locations.
Variety Wholesalers acquired 219 Big Lots stores out of bankruptcy. Although Variety Wholesalers advised the reopened locations won’t be fully reconfigured to start, the company noted customers will experience remodeled Big Lots store environments, a large selection of closeout deals and new merchandise categories. Variety Wholesalers said it will add family apparel and electronics to the assortment as the company applies its value-driven retail model to Big Lots stores.
The first wave of Big Lots reopenings will occur in Mount Sterling, KY; Metairie, LA; Pearl, MS; Asheboro, NC; Gallatin, TN; Dickson, TN; Tupelo, MS; Pearl, MS; and Roanoke, VA.
Variety Wholesalers reported it intends to reopen the remaining acquired locations in subsequent waves. The company plans to reopen 55 stores in a second wave breaking May 1. The remaining stores will open through early June leading up to a grand opening celebration that will take place at all stores in the fall, the company said.
Variety Wholesalers said the Big Lots acquisition is a significant expansion that further solidifies its position as a leading discount retailer. The company’s portfolio of banners also includes Roses, Roses Express and Maxway.
‘We’re thrilled to bring the Big Lots brand back to life by offering more deals than ever, lots of famous brands and a new apparel department for the entire family,” said Lisa Seigies, president and CEO of Variety Wholesalers. “We’re opening stores quickly so we can serve the community. We know the stores won’t be perfect to start, but each week we’ll add more new products as we build towards the grand opening celebration in the fall.”
