Big Lots to Close Stores in 2024: Impact on Tennessee
Knoxville, Tennessee – Big Lots Announces Closure of Up to 40 Stores Nationwide
Big Lots, the discount retailer that offers a variety of home products, has recently announced plans to close between 35 and 40 stores in 2024. This decision comes as the company faces financial challenges due to “elevated inflation” and a decrease in consumer spending. The closure of these stores is part of Big Lots’ efforts to navigate these economic uncertainties and potentially avoid bankruptcy.
Number of Big Lots Stores in Tennessee
Tennessee currently hosts a total of 47 Big Lots stores across the state. These stores are located in various cities and towns, including Knoxville, Chattanooga, Bristol, Kingsport, and many others. The presence of Big Lots in Tennessee has offered residents access to affordable home goods and products for years.
Financial Struggles and Reasons for Store Closures
In its recent filing, Big Lots reported a 10.2% decrease in net sales for the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period last year. The company cited the ongoing pullback in consumer spending as a significant factor contributing to its financial challenges. Additionally, Big Lots highlighted the impact of “elevated inflation” on customers’ purchasing power, making it difficult for them to afford goods.
The company also noted a significant increase in long-term debt and the potential inability to comply with its credit agreement, raising concerns about its future viability. As shares of Big Lots have plummeted this year and the company explores various strategic moves to address its financial woes, the closure of stores is seen as a necessary step in its restructuring efforts.
What Lies Ahead for Big Lots
With over 1,300 stores nationwide, Big Lots has been a prominent player in the discount retail industry since its founding in 1967. However, as the company grapples with financial uncertainties, including the possibility of bankruptcy, its future remains uncertain. Big Lots’ decision to close stores and its strategic efforts to improve its financial health will shape its trajectory in the coming months.
For customers in Tennessee and across the country, the impact of Big Lots’ store closures will be felt as they reevaluate their shopping options for affordable home products and essentials. The retail landscape continues to evolve, and Big Lots’ journey serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by businesses in an ever-changing market.
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
