13 Stores Like Big Lots for Savvy Shoppers in 2024

Big Lots has earned the loyalty of countless bargain hunters thanks to its broad assortment of discounted products. But savvy shoppers know that while Big Lots offers great deals, it’s not the only retailer providing value prices across categories like furniture, home décor, clothing, toys, and more.

In fact, industry analysis shows warehouse clubs and supercenters like Walmart and Costco control over 60% of the discount retail market share in the US [1]. That means there are plenty of alternatives to explore if you‘re looking to maximize savings without sacrificing quality or selection.

I’ve compared some of the top national and regional discount chains to reveal the 13 stores like Big Lots that should be on every bargain hunter’s radar in 2024. I evaluated each store based on:

  • Product variety: Range of discounted merchandise across categories
  • Pricing/Value: Competitiveness of regular and sale prices
  • Shopping experience: Overall convenience, store environment, service
  • Availability: Accessible locations and online ordering options

Check out this overview of the top 13 stores like Big Lots and their key differentiators:

StoreKey Differentiators
WalmartRock-bottom prices across endless assortment of products, from pantry staples to auto parts
TargetTrendy merchandise at competitive prices; 5% discounts with REDcard loyalty program
Dollar GeneralExtreme discounts on bargain basics from $1 snacks to household essentials
TJ MaxxOff-price designer brands, new stock daily; Treasure hunt shopping vibe
Ollie‘s Bargain OutletDeep discounts on excess inventory and name brand closeouts
At HomeHuge selection of home goods at warehouse pricing, up to 70% off competitors
IKEAUltra-affordable modern furniture and home furnishings with unique shopping experience
AldiAmazing prices on groceries and household essentials, savings of up to 50% vs. name brands
Ross Dress for LessMajor brand name clothes, shoes, home wares at 20-60% off department store prices
Dollar TreeAll items $1 or less; Essentials for kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, office, parties
Habitat for Humanity ReStoreNew and used furniture, home goods donated by retailers at fraction of original price
HomeGoodsBig name home furnishings, décor and kitchenware at 20-60% less than other retailers
Kohl‘sFrequent sales and promos offer steep discounts on apparel, kitchenware, home goods

Diving Deeper into the Top Retail Alternatives to Big Lots:

Walmart

With over 4,700 retail units and $524 billion in annual revenue, Walmart is by far the largest retailer in the world [2]. The retail giant built its empire on rock-bottom prices across an endless assortment of merchandise ranging from pantry staples to auto parts to home furnishings.

Walmart’s massive buying power allows it to demand the lowest wholesale prices from vendors, which translates to unbeatable deals in store. The retailer is so confident in its low-price strategy that it offers a price match guarantee on many items.

Beyond everyday low prices, Walmart also offers "Rollbacks" – temporary price reductions on select items. Savvy Walmart shoppers know to stock up during these limited-time deep discounts.

Target

While Target offers very competitive regular and sale pricing, its focus is more on “cheap chic” than bare bones bargains. Target stores entice shoppers with bright, contemporary stores showcasing trendy apparel alongside a wide range of home, kitchen, electronics, toy and grocery deals.

RedCard credit card holders get an automatic 5% discount on all purchases. Target also offers price matching and periodic Cartwheel savings through their app.

According to Target’s 2021 Annual Report, approximately 80% of the U.S. population lives within 10 miles of a Target store, giving millions of households easy access to its value prices and convenient shopping experience [3].

Dollar General

True to its name, Dollar General sticks to extreme discounts, predominantly on basic necessities and bargain buys. With over 17,000 locations, primarily in suburban and rural areas, Dollar General has broader geographic coverage than competitors [4].

The no-frills stores stock everything from toilet paper and cleaning supplies to packaged foods and clothing priced at $10 or less. You can easily find deals like $1 greeting cards, $5 DVDs, and $3 boxes of cereal. While selection is more limited, Dollar General is the place to stock up on bargain basics.

The Bottom Line

While all the stores on this list offer discounted prices across a variety of products, each provides a unique shopping experience with advantages that may align to different shopper needs and preferences.

Evaluate factors like product selection, brand availability, commitment to low pricing, and convenience to determine the right alternatives to Big Lots for your household. Take the time to explore multiple options across the 13 stores highlighted here to guarantee you’re maximizing every dollar and getting the absolute best deals.

Sources:

[1] https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/discount-department-stores-united-states/
[2] https://corporate.walmart.com/newsroom/company-facts
[3] https://corporate.target.com/_media/TargetCorp/annualreports/2021/pdfs/Target-2021-Annual-Report.pdf
[4] https://www.dollargeneral.com/about-us/at-a-glance.html

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