Local Big Lots stores reopening next month under new ownership

(WKBN) – A few local Big Lots stores will be reopening next month under new ownership.

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The Champion store, at 4331 Mahoning Ave. NW, and the Boardman store, at 7100 South Ave, will be opening May 1 under Variety Wholesalers, a company spokesperson confirmed. The New Castle-area store, at 2611 Ellwood Rd., reopens May 15.

The stores are opening in waves, and several stores across the U.S. reopened this week. The remaining stores will open in June with a “grand opening celebration” expected in the fall at all stores, according to a news release from the company.

Earlier this year, Big Lots closed a previously announced sale agreement with Gordon Brothers Retail Partners. As part of the deal, Variety Wholesalers was set to acquire 200 to 400 Big Lots stores, which would retain the Big Lots branding, and two distribution centers.

A news release from the company says stores will be remodeled and will feature closeout deals, as well as new merchandise categories, including apparel for the family and electronics.

Other retailers have taken over former Big Lots storefronts.

In March, discount retailer Ocean State Job Lot announced it was preparing to acquire 15 former Big Lots stores in Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Vermont. Ollie’s Bargain Market has also acquired more than three dozen Big Lots store leases.

Addy Bink contributed to this report.

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