Big Lots, a beloved name among retail chains with big discounts in Texas, recently unveiled a significant wave of store closures as part of its strategic financial restructuring.
Known for providing affordable household goods, furniture, and seasonal décor, the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September 2024. This decision affects 344 stores across the United States, with 11 of these closures occurring in the State of Texas.
Why is Big Lots closing so many stores in Texas?
The retail landscape has dramatically evolved, posing challenges for brick-and-mortar retailers like Big Lots. The company has faced stiff competition from e-commerce giants and large chains such as Target and Walmart.
Additionally, rising operational costs, inflation, and changing consumer preferences have placed tremendous pressure on Big Lots’ financial health. In response, the company is closing underperforming stores as part of a comprehensive restructuring strategy. This plan focuses on:
- Concentrating efforts on more profitable locations
- Streamlining operations to enhance efficiency
This strategic move aims to fortify the company’s position in the market by honing in on locations that promise better returns and optimizing operational processes.
The Fascinating Journey of Big Lots
This company was founded in 1967 by Sol Shenk in Columbus, Ohio, Big Lots began its story under the name Consolidated International, Inc. Originally, the company carved its niche by specializing in the purchase and sale of closeout items, primarily focusing on auto parts and vehicles.
Over the years, Big Lots broadened its horizons, expanding its offerings to include an extensive variety of discounted goods such as household items, furniture, and seasonal décor. In 1982, the company unveiled the Odd Lots/Big Lots brand, which eventually evolved into its primary identity.
Expansion into the Texas Market
Big Lots made a significant entry into the Texas market in 2010, launching its first store in Frisco, Texas, strategically located at 3333 Preston Road. This opening was part of a grander expansion strategy, with a remarkable debut of 17 new stores across the U.S. on the same day.
Fortunately for the Frisco community, the original Big Lots store remains untouched by the current wave of closures.
Current Store Operations in Texas
Big Lots operated a total of 116 stores in Texas before the recent announcement of closures. However, following the decision to close 11 locations, 105 Big Lots stores will continue to serve customers across the state.
This unexpected decision has taken many loyal customers by surprise, especially in Texas, where Big Lots has long been cherished as a favorite destination for discounted commodities.
Big Lots Store Closures in Texas: Full List
Discover the list of 11 Big Lots stores in Texas that are closing their doors:
- Amarillo: 3510 E. Interstate 40, Amarillo, TX 79103
- College Station: 1913 Texas Ave. S., College Station, TX 77840
- Corpus Christi: 4101 Interstate Hwy 69 Access Rd., Corpus Christi, TX 78410
- Fort Worth: 1255 Town Square Dr., Fort Worth, TX 76116
- Fort Worth: 6800 Overton Ridge Blvd., Fort Worth, TX 76132
- Katy: 923 S. Mason Rd., Katy, TX 77450
- Mansfield: 989 N. Walnut Creek Dr. Ste. 151, Mansfield, TX 76063
- Nacogdoches: 4919 North St. Ste. 101, Nacogdoches, TX 75965
- Pearland: 2028 N. Main St., Pearland, TX 77581
- San Antonio: 6900 San Pedro Ave. Ste. 119, San Antonio, TX 78216
- Tomball: 27816 State Hwy 249, Tomball, TX 77375
Impact on Texas Customers
The closure of these 11 Big Lots stores signifies a significant change for many Texans who have long depended on the retailer for affordable goods.
Although 105 stores will continue to operate, the shutdown of locations in key cities such as Fort Worth, San Antonio, and Corpus Christi will likely inconvenience local shoppers. These customers may now have to travel longer distances to find their nearest Big Lots store, impacting their shopping convenience.