Big Lots

Big Lots — Big Deals, Bigger Savings, and a Legacy of Bargain Shopping

Founded: 1967 | Founder: Sol A. Shenk | Origin: Columbus, Ohio

Big Lots was one of America's most recognizable discount retail chains, known for offering incredible bargains on furniture, home décor, household essentials, toys, electronics, seasonal merchandise, and everyday necessities.

The company's roots date back to 1967, when entrepreneur Sol A. Shenk founded Consolidated Stores Corporation in Columbus, Ohio. The business grew by purchasing closeout merchandise, excess inventory, and discontinued products, allowing customers to discover name-brand items at discounted prices.

In 1982, the first Odd Lots store opened, helping establish the closeout retail concept that would eventually become Big Lots. Over the following decades, the company expanded across the United States and brought its stores together under the Big Lots name.

For generations of shoppers, Big Lots became a destination for unexpected finds. Customers could walk into a store looking for one item and leave with furniture, snacks, holiday decorations, kitchen supplies, and other bargains.

At its peak, Big Lots operated more than 1,400 stores nationwide, becoming a familiar name in American discount shopping.

However, increasing competition, changing consumer spending habits, rising operating costs, and financial challenges placed significant pressure on the company. In September 2024, Big Lots filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.

The original company subsequently moved toward closing its stores, but the brand received another opportunity when Variety Wholesalers acquired hundreds of store leases and rights to the Big Lots name. Select locations reopened in 2025 under new ownership.

Although Big Lots has experienced major changes, its legacy as a destination for affordable merchandise and surprise bargains remains an important part of American retail history.

At CheckoutMall, we celebrate Big Lots in our "Brands Gone, But Not Forgotten" collection, remembering the original discount shopping experience that helped families stretch their budgets and discover great deals.

Big Lots — Big Savings. Big Deals. Big Memories.