Future of Indiana stores in question as Big Lots files for bankruptcy
NEW YORK (CNN) — Big Lots, the beleaguered discount retailer that previously warned it had “substantial doubt” about its survival, has filed for bankruptcy.
As part of its Chapter 11 filing, the retailer announced that private equity firm Nexus Capital Management is acquiring “substantially all” of Big Lots stores and business operations. During the process, its locations and website will remain open for shopping.
Big Lots has about three dozen locations in Indiana. The retailer announced plans earlier this summer to close five Indiana stores, including the Big Lots at 8401 Michigan Road in Indianapolis.
“The actions we are taking today will enable us to move forward with new owners who believe in our business and provide financial stability, while we optimize our operational footprint, accelerate improvement in our performance, and deliver on our promise to be the leader in extreme value,” said Big Lots CEO Bruce Thorn in a press release.
Big Lots blamed several economic factors for its bankruptcy, including high inflation and interest rates. That has led customers to change their purchasing behavior. They’re seeking out value – but not necessarily lower costs. That’s why dollar stores have been struggling while sales at Walmart and Amazon have been booming. It’s also why McDonald’s has been struggling while casual chains like Applebee’s have been growing.
“The prevailing economic trends have been particularly challenging to Big Lots, as its core customers curbed their discretionary spending on the home and seasonal product categories that represent a significant portion of the company’s revenue,” it explained.
More store closures could be coming, too. Big Lots is in the process of closing roughly 300 of its 1,400 store across the United States. No additional closures were announced Monday, but Big Lots warned it will “need to close certain locations to ensure that our business operates efficiently and we can continue serving our customers.”
The 57-year-old company has secured $707.5 million in fresh financing to keep operating and to pay employees and vendors. Nexus was named the “stalking horse bidder” with its acquisition expected to close later this year, unless there are better offers.
Big Lots joins a growing list of well-known retailers hitting financial turbulence as customers cut back spending on non-essential items. Last week, LL Flooring announced that it couldn’t find a buyer and is shutting down after more than three decades in business.
Indiana locations
In July and August, Big Lots announced the closure of five Indiana stores:
- 2136 E. Markland Ave. in Kokomo
- 8401 Michigan Road in Indianapolis
- 138 W. Hively Ave., Elkhart
- 3958 Illinois Road, Fort Wayne
- 1806 Frontage Road, Warsaw
Indiana stores not currently scheduled for closing include:
- 6225 Allisonville Rd., Indianapolis
- 5520 Madison Ave., Indianapolis
- 1650 E. County Line Rd., Indianapolis
- 10235 E. Washington St., Indianapolis
- 6121 Crawfordsville Road, Speedway
The low-cost retailer also operates 32 other locations in the state of Indiana not slated for closure, including Big Lots stores in Anderson, Avon, Columbus, Franklin, Greenfield, Noblesville, Seymour, and Shelbyville.