5 MI Big Lots Reopening In May: What To Know

MICHIGAN — Five Big Lots stores across Michigan will reopen in May under new ownership, a company spokesperson confirmed with Patch.

The reopenings come after Variety Wholesalers acquired the brand from Gordon Brothers Retail Partners late last year.

"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," Lisa Seigies, president and CEO of Variety Wholesalers, said in a news release announcing the reopening store locations.

The three Michigan stores that are set to reopen on May 1 include:

• Burton: 4157 E. Court Street
• Flint: 5112 Miller Road
• Shelby Township: 7651 23 Mile Road

On May 15, two more Michigan stores will reopen at:

• Port Huron: 659 24th Street
• Southgate: 14333 Eureka Road

The first wave of store openings came earlier this month when nine stores reopened across the nation on April 10. More stores are expected to reopen throughout the year, leading up to a grand opening celebration that will take place across all stores sometime this fall.

Variety Wholesalers noted customers will experience remodeled stores, a large selection of closeout deals and new merchandise categories, including apparel for the family and electronics.

Last September, the company announced it had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. They then began "going out of business" sales at all locations in December after an asset purchase agreement fell through.

Big Lots pointed to "high inflation and interest rates that are beyond its control" as the source of its problems. The chain added that "core customers curbed their discretionary spending on the home and seasonal product categories that represent a significant portion of the Company's revenue."

Founded in 1967, the company operated in its infancy as Consolidated International and operated closeout and discount stores under a variety of names. In 2001, the various store names and company were converted to the single national Big Lots brand.