Big Lots Inc is an American retailer specializing in the sale of product returns, overstocks, and other affordable goods. The company was founded in 1967 in Columbus, Ohio and currently operates over 1,400 stores in the US. The history of Big Lots Inc begins with the founding of the company as "Consolidated Stores Corporation" in 1967. The company originally operated a chain of discount stores known as "Odd Lots" that specialized in selling goods sourced from stock inventories and other sources. In the 1980s and 90s, the company expanded through acquisitions and the opening of new stores in other parts of the country. In 2001, the company officially changed its name to "Big Lots Inc" to better reflect the wider range of goods and services it now offered. The business model of Big Lots Inc is based on offering affordable goods sourced from various sources. This includes overstocks, manufacturing defects, unsold units, returns, and other goods that were not sold by the manufacturer or retailer for various reasons. These products are then sold to consumers at significantly reduced prices. The company operates a range of different departments, including furniture, garden and patio, home decor, food, household items, toys, and other categories. Each department includes a wide range of products, all offered at discounted prices. Big Lots Inc's furniture department offers a wide range of furniture pieces, from sofas and chairs to beds and mattresses. The garden and patio department includes outdoor furniture, garden tools, and other items needed for garden and patio management. The home decor department includes decorative items, window treatments, rugs, and other products to beautify homes. Big Lots Inc's grocery department includes a variety of food and beverages, including frozen foods, snacks, drinks, spices, and more. The household items department includes products such as dishes, pots and pans, appliances, and other household necessities. Big Lots Inc also offers a wide selection of toys, from dolls and puzzles to games and outdoor toys. Other categories the company covers include paper goods, pet supplies, and clothing. The success of Big Lots Inc is based on the company's ability to offer a wide range of goods at low prices. Customers appreciate the savings they can achieve by shopping at Big Lots Inc, and the company has established itself as a leading provider of affordable goods. In recent years, Big Lots Inc has also placed a greater focus on e-commerce and built a broader online presence. The company now offers a website and a mobile app for customers to shop online. Overall, Big Lots Inc has a long history as a provider of affordable goods sourced from various sources. The company is able to offer a wide range of products, including furniture, household items, groceries, and toys, at a competitive price. With a strong focus on customer satisfaction and creating a broad online presence, Big Lots Inc remains a key player in the American retail market.