Northport/Jasper Big Lots Remain Open

It is official, the Big Lots stores in Northport and Jasper will remain open after all. The national chain that sells a range of discounted products from housewares to grocery items to furniture and seasonal items struck a deal with Variety Wholesalers, a longtime competitor. Variety Wholesalers acquired several hundred stores and will continue to operate the stores under the "Big Lots" brand. Four other Big Lots stores in Alabama are also expected to remain open.

In a press release, Lisa Seigies, president and CEO of Variety Wholesalers stated, '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,” she said. “We’re opening stores quickly so we can serve the community. We know the stores won’t be perfect to start, but each week we’ll add more new products as we build towards the grand opening celebration in the fall. Every time a customer visits Big Lots! we want them to find something new and exciting!”

Variety Wholesalers operates more than 400 stores in 18 states.

The deal happened after Big Lots announced it was closing all remaining locations due to financial difficulties, some born by significant competition from bargain retailers Dollar General and Dollar Tree. Inflation was also named as a major culprit for declining profits.

Ollie's Bargain Outlet has also purchased the leases for 63 Big Lots locations, with plans to open stores in those spaces under their own brand name.

After suffering declining sales for years, Big Lots filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in September 2024. Control of the company was then transferred to the liquidation firm Gordon Brothers, and which had been expected to close every location.

Many retail experts are voicing concern about the impact President Trump’s tariff plan could have on the price they pay for goods and the increases they would be forced to pass along to the consumer.

The Northport store is located at 5510 McFarland Blvd. and the Jasper store is at 1100 Hwy 78 W. The timeline for the two stores to resume operations under the new ownership has not been released by the new owners at this point.