WASHINGTON — Big Lots will open nearly 80 stores in June, the third wave of store openings amid the retailer's comeback.

Variety Wholesaler, which acquired more than 200 Big Lots stores as part of a deal last December, has reopened dozens of stores over the past few months. In its third wave of store reopening's, the company says an additional 78 locations will welcome customers again on Thursday, June 5 across nine states.

More stores are expected to open in the following months, leading up to a "grand celebration" in the fall, the company previously said in a press release.

"We're thrilled to bring the Big Lots! brand back to life by offering more deals than ever, lots of famous brands and a new apparel department for the entire family,” Lisa Seigies, president and CEO of V

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