A big announcement has made a lot of bargain shoppers feel very happy. The new owners of Big Lots announced they are expected to open 200 stores this year.

Big Lots' New Owners Have Major News

You saw them all over Western New York, store closing signs in the of the Big Lots. The former discount store owner announced they were closing all their brick-and-mortar stores after filing for bankruptcy. A new deal was struck back in December of 2024 with Variety Wholesalers, and the new owners said they plan on opening or reopening over 200 stores this year.

Will Big Lots Return To Western New York?

Looking at the current map of stores that are expected to open or reopen, Western New York is not part of the plan. According to the latest map, the closest Big Lots will be in Erie, Pennsylvania. That store is expected to open during the third wave of store openings, which would happen towards the end of summer. In fact, no Big Lots will be opened or reopened during this initial wave of openings.

READ MORE: 5 STORES WE USED TO LOVE TO SHOP AT IN WESTERN NEW YORK

Where Are The Big Lots Opening?

The new owner of Big Lots is based in North Carolina, and most of the stores opening or reopening will happen in Pennsylvania and in the South. There will be several stores reopening in Ohio as well. That means if you live in the 716, you will have to travel out of state to shop at a Big Lots.

No word yet if Big Lots will eventually return to Western New York or New York State.

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Gallery Credit: Dave Fields

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