Two Big Lots Permanently Close in Michigan: Is Your City Next?

Big Lots, the Ohio-based discount retailer known for its closeout and repackaged goods, continues its large-scale downsizing in Michigan and across the U.S. to avoid bankruptcy. Spoiler: it didn't work; they filed in early September 2024. In a move that surprises no one at this point but still feels BIG, the company has announced it will shutter an additional 250 locations beginning in January 2025 as part of its bankruptcy, according to a report on The Hill. That's on top of the 300 stores

Initially, Big Lots aimed to close around three dozen stores nationwide, but the list has since ballooned to well over 300 stores, including 11 in Michigan. But with 250 yet to be named locations hitting the chopping block, no Mitten State location is safe.

The Party's Already Over for Two Michigan Big Lots Stores

Scott Clow

Most recently, the Kentwood (28th Street) and Okemos (Grand River Avenue) locations have been removed from the company's website and officially shuttered. This leaves just nine other Michigan stores on the chopping block—for now.

Big Rapids
- 750 Perry Avenue
Coldwater
- 373 N. Willowbrook Road
Holland
- 2353 N. Park Drive
Howell
- 3669 E. Grand River Avenue
Lansing
- 5625 W. Saginaw Highway
Madison Heights
- 32399 John R Road
Petoskey
- 1401 Spring Street
Portage
- 6207 S. Westnedge Avenue
Ypsilanti
- 2850 Washtenaw Avenue

Scott Clow

With the closure of Kentwood and Okemos and nine more just waiting to be permanently shuttered, Michigan is left with just 35 Big Lots throughout the state. However, given that the company just announced two new Ohio store closures in Cincinnati and Newark, there's speculation that the current list might not be final. Could more Michigan locations be at risk?

Big Lots isn't alone in the struggle. With online shopping becoming easier and consumer spending tightening, many national retailers—like Rite Aid and Red Lobster—are facing similar fates. These ongoing closures are a stark reminder of the shifting landscape and the challenges faced by nationally and locally owned brick-and-mortar stores.

The Past Lives of All 37 Michigan 'Spirit Halloween' Stores

They pop up overnight and take over recently or long abandoned storefronts in Michigan beginning in August: October retail giant "Spirit Halloween," the grim reaper of retail closures. Here's a look at what all 37 Michigan Spirit Halloween were like in their past lives before they became home to masks and fake cobwebs.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

7 Recent Bankruptcies With Devastating Impact on Michigan Retail

National retail and restaurant chains are feeling the pinch of the changing economy. Instore traffic has dropped as more and more consumers head online to make their purchases. Here's a look at seven businesses that have filed for bankruptcy protection and operate in Michigan, according to bankruptcy watchdog Intellizence. Their filings could have a devastating impact on the state's jobless rate and economy.