Table of Contents
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Big Lots no longer plans to close all its remaining stores. The retailer said it has agreed to a deal that will save hundreds of stores and thousands of jobs, while keeping the brand alive.
The retailer has agreed to a sale transaction with Gordon Brothers Retail Partners that calls for the transfer of Big Lots assets — including stores, distribution centers and intellectual property — to other retailers and companies, including Variety Wholesalers Inc., which owns more than 400 retail stores in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic United States under the Roses, Roses Express, Maxway, Bill's Dollar Stores, Super 10, Super Dollar, and Bargain Town banners.
Variety Wholesalers intends to acquire between 200 and 400 Big Lots stores, which it plans to operate under the Big Lots brand moving forward, and up to two distribution centers. In addition, Variety Wholesalers may employ Big Lots associates at the acquired stores and distribution centers, as well as certain corporate associates needed to support the go-forward footprint.
"The strategic sale to Gordon Brothers and the transfer to Variety Wholesalers is a favorable and significant achievement for Big Lots that reflects the tireless work and collective effort of our team," said Bruce Thorn, Big Lots' president and chief executive officer. "This sale agreement and transfer present the strongest opportunity to preserve jobs, maximize value for the estate and ensure continuity of the Big Lots brand. We are grateful to our associates nationwide for their grit and resilience throughout this process."
Rick Edwards, Gordon Brothers Retail Partners' head of North America Retail, also praised the deal.
"We are pleased to reach this strategic agreement with Big Lots and partner with Variety Wholesalers to achieve a path forward that allows Big Lots to continue to serve customers with extreme bargains and an outstanding shopping experience."
Lisa Seigies, Variety Wholesalers' president and CEO, said, "We are excited to partner with Gordon Brothers to provide a path forward for the Big Lots brand and hundreds of its stores. We look forward to working with members of the Big Lots team to realize the exciting opportunities ahead."
The agreement is subject to approval by the Bankruptcy Court and other customary closing conditions.
