COLUMBUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—In a critical move to safeguard its future, Big Lots has unveiled a sale agreement that aims to preserve hundreds of its stores and thousands of jobs across the nation. The Columbus-based retailer made the announcement on Friday, revealing a deal with Gordon Brothers Retail Partners to transfer its stores, distribution centers, intellectual property, and assets to other retailers. Among the potential buyers is Variety Wholesalers, which plans to acquire between 200 to 400 Big Lots locations. This acquisition is seen as a pivotal step in ensuring the brand’s continuity and stability in the retail market. Additionally, Variety Wholesalers intends to purchase two of Big Lots’ distribution centers, according to a news release from the company. However, the agreement is still subject to approval from the bankruptcy court and other conditions. Big Lots filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September, prompting the company to begin auctioning off leases for 170 locations that have already closed. In a troubling turn of events, just before Christmas, Big Lots announced plans to lay off over 500 employees at its northeast Columbus headquarters, located at 4900 E. Dublin Granville Rd. The layoffs, categorized as “mass layoffs,” are expected to commence on Monday. The recent sales agreement announcement did not clarify whether these layoffs would be immediately halted. As the situation develops, many are hopeful that the sale will provide a lifeline for Big Lots and its employees, allowing the retailer to emerge from bankruptcy with a renewed focus on growth and stability. Stores located in Marion and Richland County remain in limbo.