Big Lots Stores Inc
Industry: Retail (Specialty)

Big Lots, Inc. (NYSE: BLI) is the nation's largest broadline closeout retailer. The Company operates a total of 1,380 stores in 45 states operatingas BIG LOTS and BIG LOTS FURNITURE. Wholesale operations are conducted through BIG LOTS WHOLESALE, CONSOLIDATED INTERNATIONAL, WISCONSIN TOY.

Business Summary
Big Lots, Inc. is a national broadline closeout retailer. It purchases excess merchandise directly from manufacturers that generally results from production overruns, packaging changes, discontinued products or returns. As a result of the lower purchase cost, it can generally offer most merchandise at prices lower than those offered by a traditional retailer. At January 29, 2005, the Company operated a total of 1,502 stores in 46 states with 1,459 stores under the name Big Lots and 43 stores under the name Big Lots Furniture. Its wholesale operations are conducted through Big Lots Wholesale, Consolidated International and Wisconsin Toy, with online sales at its Website.

Financial Summary
Big Lots is a value retailer specializing in closeout merchandise. As of 2/03, BLI operated 1,380 retail closeout stores in 45 states under the names Big Lots and Big Lots Furniture. For the 26 weeks ended 7/30/05, net sales rose 7% to $2.15B. Net loss totaled $6M, up from $1.4M. Revenues reflect higher comparable store sales and new stores opened. Higher loss reflects an increase in selling & administrative and depreciation expenses.