Big Lots: Shopping for Collectibles at Closeout Prices

Although Consolidated Stores Corporation has been in business since 1967, the first Big Lots did not open until 1985. Depending on the location, the company also had stores named Odd Lots, Odd Lots/Big Lots, and Pick n'Save. Eventually Consolidated purchased a west coast chain, McFrugals and in 2001 the stores and company name, all became one national brand: Big Lots.

Today there are over 1,400 stores in 47 states, with bargains in every one of them!

There are three layers of merchandise in Big Lots stores:

1. Close Outs -- what the store is famous for.
2. Big Lot branded products -- made for them at significantly reduced prices.
3. Non-closeout items that are bought on a regular basis, also at a significantly reduced price from the manufacturer.

Here are some of the treasures I found on a trip to Big Lots. Checking the Easter aisle were two different Crayola metal Easter tin baskets filled with Crayola products. These are the ones that typically sell for around $20., price was $9.88. More licensed Crayola items included shadow boxes and fun picture frames for $4.99. Licensed Disney items included a Mickey Mouse picture frame that talked and had a bobbing head Mickey standing on the side of it - $5.99. I also liked the Mickey Mouse paper cup dispenser for $3.99.

There are always loads of Barbie merchandise, both dolls and accessories. My Little Pony collectors could pick up an inflatable slumber-bag for $12.99, meanwhile NASCAR fans had Easter tins, lunch boxes and more assorted merchandise, all at bargain prices.

You've probably seen the television advertising and bulk mail ads, but have you shopped at a Big Lots lately? There are always bargains to be found and many times, interesting stuff that appeals to the collector in me.

I've found Pepsi Cola radios, lots of Barbies, Toy Story figures, cookie jars -- including seasonal and Oreo advertising jars, Crayola collectibles and much more. For me it can be as much fun as going to the flea market, sometimes the treasures are there and other times I leave empty handed.

If you're lucky enough to have a Big Lots nearby, stop by and see what bargains might be found. And if you have more than one nearby, it's even better as the merchandise can be very different.

Find a Big Lots near you!