Big Lots store available for lease in a busy shopping area.
Big Lots, under owner Gordon Brothers, has listed over 460 store leases for sale across the U.S. amidst significant restructuring following Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. This move affects states like Michigan, Texas, and Florida. While some stores are closing, there’s hope with deals in place to keep the Big Lots brand alive. Retailers see an opportunity in these leases, offering prime locations at below-market rates. As Big Lots faces challenges, the company’s future remains uncertain but possibilities for recovery are emerging.
In a move that’s shaking the retail world, Big Lots is in the spotlight as the company’s owner, Gordon Brothers, lists over 460 store leases for sale across the United States! With a significant restructuring underway following Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, this major announcement is affecting locations in Michigan and even stretches across 47 states. Exciting times—or worrying times? Let’s dive into what this all means.
The news comes hot on the heels of Big Lots’ decision to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in September 2024, aiming to reorganize and find paths to recovery while managing debts. As of January 14, 2025, Gordon Brothers listed these leases, with purchase offers due by January 24, 2025. These leases are seen as a golden opportunity for retailers looking for prime real estate, often at below-market rates.
Most of the stores up for lease range from approximately 19,000 to 55,000 square feet, making them perfect for those eyeing significant retail space. The stores are primarily located in bustling shopping centers, meaning they come with foot traffic and visibility that any retailer would dream of! Among the states featuring the most Big Lots locations up for sale, Texas leads the pack with 72 stores, followed by New York with 49, and Florida with 44.
In Michigan, the situation is a bit dire, as 16 leases are currently for sale, and already, 11 Big Lots locations have closed their doors. Plans are in place to close four more stores shortly. It’s a wave of change that has many shoppers wondering what the future holds for their favorite discount shopping destination.
But it’s not all doom and gloom! Big Lots announced an agreement to transfer 200 to 400 stores to Variety Wholesalers Inc., who is eager to retain the iconic Big Lots brand and may bring back familiar faces by keeping current employees on board. This transition could help maintain continuity and service for loyal customers who count on Big Lots for affordable home goods.
Previously, Big Lots had mentioned closing over 340 stores altogether due to the company’s financial struggles, even with many of these locations being profitable. At one point, there was talk of shutting down all stores after a sale to Nexus Capital Management fell through. This recent lease sale, however, seems to open a new chapter for the company as it navigates these turbulent waters.
For those looking to dive into retail, Gordon Brothers emphasizes that now is an ideal time to tap into well-located retail spaces, especially with all leases having at least five years remaining. The blend of retail challenges and opportunities means that savvy retailers can step in and breathe new life into these spaces. For shops looking to expand, now is the moment to act!
With Big Lots being the fourth-largest home goods retailer in the U.S. and tallying $4.7 billion in revenue for 2023, the stakes are high. As of early 2024, they boasted 1,392 stores. It’s clear that even in challenging times, potential customers will be watching closely to see how Big Lots and Gordon Brothers turn things around. And who knows—this may just be the beginning of an exciting retail comeback!
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