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Shelby, NC (WNN) - The Big Lots store in Shelby, NC, celebrated its grand reopening on Thursday, October 30th, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local officials and community members, marking the store's return to Cleveland County after closing earlier this year.
Cleveland County Commissioner Tony Berry cutting the ribbon with two Big Lots employees. October 30th,2025
Lauren Ramsey (WNN)
Store Manager Nick Armold expressed enthusiasm about the reopening following the company's temporary closure.
"I was a little bit disappointed that we closed earlier this year, but it's fantastic that we're back open again," Armold said.
Big Lots store manager Nick Armold taping the ribbon together on the doors of the store. October 30th,2025
Lauren Ramsey (WNN)
The Shelby location, at 1728 E. Dixon Blvd., is among 200 locations in 14 states that Variety Wholesalers Inc., a North Carolina-based retail company, plans to acquire and operate as Big Lots, following the company's original bankruptcy filing.
The store has a much bigger selection of name-brand clothes at lower prices, according to Armold. They've also reduced prices compared to before they closed, offering shoppers more affordable options in many areas of the store.
Halloween decorations in the store that are marked 30% off. October 30th,2025
Lauren Ramsey (WNN)
"Our prices are cheaper than they used to be," Armold said. "I think a lot of customers are going to like the price points of our merchandise." While the store carries less furniture than previously, management plans to expand inventory through new vendor relationships. Armold said the store has tripled in size since reopening six months ago.
Right now, you can find the best deals on clothes and furniture. These two areas offer the biggest markdowns.
Medical scrubs that are sold in the store. October 30th,2025
Lauren Ramsey (WNN)
Armold said the community has embraced the store's return, with customers expressing excitement about the new merchandise selection.
"Everyone's been excited. They've enjoyed our new merchandise," he said. "We're expanding every day."
Big Lots store manager Nick Armold and staff interacting with customers in the store. October 30th,2025
Lauren Ramsey (WNN)
Big Lots filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September and has been working to restructure its operations. The Shelby reopening was part of the company's effort to reopen more than 200 stores within six months, growing from approximately 500 locations to over 700 stores, according to Armold.
"It was a significant challenge for the entire company, from logistics to manpower," Armold said. "It was just a huge hurdle, but we made it."
Variety Wholesalers is taking over locations in North Carolina and 13 other states.
Cleveland County Commissioner Tony Berry attended Thursday's ceremony and praised the retailer's longstanding presence in the area.
"Big Lots has done a lot for Cleveland County over the years and been here for a long time," Berry said. "We thank you for what you do and appreciate it and look forward to a great, continued season with you."
Store officials expressed gratitude to attendees during the grand reopening celebration. They emphasized the importance of community support as the store transitions.
The Shelby store is now part of other North Carolina locations included in the Variety Wholesalers purchase. This move enables Big Lots to continue serving customers across the state.
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