Right now, the discount retail chain Big Lots is facing some tough times, leading to the closure of seven of its twelve locations across Wisconsin by the end of the year. Earlier this summer, the Ohio-based retailer made headlines by announcing it would be shutting down 35 to 40 stores nationwide due to persistent financial struggles and fierce competition from online retailers.
Sales reports indicate a significant downturn, with Big Lots experiencing over a 10% drop compared to the same period last year. Compounding issues include long-term debt, which climbs $72.2 million from last year's report, raising concerns about the company's viability and hinting at possible bankruptcy.
Aside from the closures, Big Lots has wrestled with plans to expand its footprint closer to Milwaukee. A store planned for Grafton was expected to open its doors later this year but those plans went awry, highlighting the retailer's difficulties.
Which Big Lots stores are closing across Wisconsin?
The closures affect specific locations, with each store now displaying banners promoting discounts of up to 20% for customers during their final months. The stores slated for closure include:
- Fond Du Lac: 616 W. Johnson St.
- La Crosse: 3960 Mormon Coulee Road
- Menomonee Falls: N78W14511 Appleton Ave.
- Mount Pleasant: 5415 Washington Ave.
- Neenah: 699 S. Green Bay Road
- Sheboygan: 3426 Kohler Memorial Drive
- West Bend: 1690 S. Main St.
While specific closing dates remain unclear, representatives from Big Lots have mentioned some stores, particularly those in Fond du Lac, Menomonee Falls, Sheboygan, and West Bend, are likely to cease operations by as early as October.
What about Milwaukee?
Residents of Milwaukee can breathe a sigh of relief as their Big Lots location at 5667 S. 27th St. is not on the closing list. This store remains operational, alongside four other locations across Wisconsin: Eau Claire, Green Bay, Janesville, and Stevens Point.
The current economic climate has raised questions about the overall health of brick-and-mortar retail. While some locations are thriving, others grapple with the need to adapt to changing consumer habits, which increasingly favor online shopping. Big Lots seems to reflect this broader trend as it struggles to maintain its presence.
The impending store closures will not only affect the employees working at these locations—who must now face uncertain futures—but also local communities. Many of these stores have been part of the local business fabric, providing job opportunities and serving as convenient shopping options for residents.
For those interested, now's the time to check out these Big Lots locations before they close their doors for good. Expect discounts and the chance to pick up some last-minute bargains. Yet one can't help but wonder how many more retailers may face similar fates as they navigate the rough waters of today's retail environment.