Variety Wholesalers will open the first nine Big Lots stores under its ownership on 10 April, following the brand's acquisition from Gordon Brothers earlier this year. The retailer, based in Henderson, North Carolina, aims to reopen 220 stores by 5 June, with potential for further expansion.
Photo: Dreamstime.
The company operates 380 stores across the Southeastern United States under banners including "Roses," "Maxway," and "Bargain Town." Jeff King, vice president of sales and marketing, stated that while growth will be strategic, they remain "aggressive looking for opportunities" to expand Big Lots further.
The first stores set to reopen are in Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. These locations closed early in the liquidation process, with additional waves of store openings planned for 1 and 15 May. Grand openings are scheduled for October.
Variety's acquisition did not include the "Broyhill" brand, and furniture will initially play a reduced role in store offerings. However, King indicated this could change as the business evolves, stating that 'furniture will not play as prominent a part in the merchandise selection' during the early phase.
Source: www.furnituretoday.com