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The store at 1432 E. Dixie Drive is the only North Carolina location to be in what the retail chain calls its “first wave� of Big Lots stores reopening.

Variety is labeling the reopening as “the comeback starts soon.�

The next wave is scheduled to start May 1 with 55 stores, while the remaining 155 of the 219 locations that Variety acquired in December to reopen by early June.

Variety bought the stores from Gordon Brothers Retail Partners LLC, which Big Lots hired in September to manage the divesting of the stores after Big Lots filed for bankruptcy.

The companies have not said which stores transferred to Variety. Initially, Big Lots locations in Hickory, Morganton, Statesville, Newton Mooresville and Lincolnton were among those Variety considered buying. A Marion store was not on the list.

and Big Lots social media channels will provide updates on store announcements.

‘We’re thrilled to bring the Big Lots! brand back to life by offering more deals than ever, lots of famous brands and a new apparel department for the entire family,� said Lisa Seigies, president and chief executive of Variety Wholesalers.

“We’re opening stores quickly so we can serve the community. We know the stores won’t be perfect to start, but each week we’ll add more new products as we build towards the grand opening celebration in the fall.�

Variety plans to take over one to two Big Lots distribution centers. Variety currently owns about 400 stores in 15 states, including Bargain Town, Bill’s Dollar Stores, Maxway, Roses Express, Super Dollar and Super 10.

Variety said it “may employ Big Lots associates at the acquired stores and distribution centers, as well as certain corporate associates needed to support the go-forth footprint.�

Former N.C. Republican legislator Art Pope is chairman and chief executive of Variety Wholesalers.

Big Lots entered bankruptcy on Sept. 8. Variety submitted a list of stores it wanted to buy in early 2025.