Big Lots files for bankruptcy, will sell assets to buyout firm as it blames high inflation

Core Viewpoint - Big Lots has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection due to declining consumer spending and soft sales, planning to sell its assets and ongoing operations to Nexus Capital Management [1][2]. Group 1: Financial Performance - High inflation and interest rates have negatively impacted Big Lots' business, leading to a significant pullback in consumer purchases of home and seasonal products, which are crucial for revenue [2]. - Sales at stores open for at least a year have declined for nine consecutive quarters, indicating ongoing struggles in retail performance [2]. Group 2: Strategic Decisions - The board of Big Lots determined that selling to Nexus Capital was the best strategic move despite some improvement in performance [3]. - The company will continue operations during the court-supervised sale process but plans to close some stores without specifying details [4][5]. Group 3: Financing and Auction Process - Big Lots has secured commitments for $707.5 million in financing, including $35 million in new financing from current lenders, to support operations during the sale process [8]. - Nexus Capital will act as a "stalking horse" bidder in a court-supervised auction, with the sale subject to higher bids [6]. Group 4: Market Position and Challenges - Big Lots operates in a highly competitive market where other value retailers are outperforming in delivering low prices and compelling bargains [7]. - The company has received a notice from the New York Stock Exchange due to its stock price falling below $1 for 30 consecutive trading days, with shares dropping 40% to 30 cents in premarket trading [9].