The retail apocalypse has taken a Michigan favorite. Big Lots, the beloved purveyor of almost-useful knickknacks and "what the heck is that?" furniture, is throwing in the towel. The Ohio-based chain, which flirted with a comeback after declaring bankruptcy earlier this year, is officially liquidating all 963 of its remaining stores nationwide, according to the Detroit Free Press.

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So bargain hunters, brace yourself because these clearance sales will be Big Lots' last dance.

Michigan Loses Big (Lots)

The interior of the Big Lots on Grand River Avenue in Okemos, Michigan before it closed in the summer of 2024.
Canva / Scott Clow
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Before bankruptcy rumors began surrounding Big Lots at the beginning of 2024, the retailer boasted 46 locations in Michigan. However, the discount retail giant's Chapter 11 filing led to the announcement that 11 stores would be shut down in Michigan, a list that grew monthly to include every store in the state and the country.

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Michigan has already seen 17 of its 46 Big Lots stores shutter, some early enough to become home to the Grim Reaper of retail for a couple of months, Spirit Halloween. If liquidation plans proceed, even the remaining 29 stores could disappear faster than a good deal on sketchy patio furniture.

What Went Wrong?

A clearance sign reading CUSHIONS 10% OFF ORIGINAL TICKET PRICE is seen inside the former Big Lots on Grand River Avenue in Okemos, Michigan
Scott Clow
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Big Lots' journey to doom was paved with $3.1 billion in debt and a failed private equity rescue deal. Inflation, changing shopping habits, and, let's face it, our addiction to Amazon hammered the final nails into the retailer's coffin.

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In an interview with The US Sun, Big Lots CEO Bruce Thorn shared that there is a sliver of hope as they desperately search for a new lender. But don't hold your breath. So, stock up on your plastic flamingos, discontinued cereals, and factory-second furniture pieces now because it won't be long before all that your Michigan Big Lots has to offer is a parking lot. 

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