Big Lots, Inc. - BIG STOCK NEWS

Big Lots, Inc. (NYSE: BIG) announced it will disclose its fourth quarter fiscal 2020 results on March 5, 2021, at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time. A conference call will follow, accessible via the company's Investor Relations website. An archive of the call will be available until March 19, 2021. The company operates 1,409 stores across 47 states, focusing on a wide assortment of home essentials, and aims to provide value and good service in its communities.

On February 2, 2021, Big Lots (NYSE: BIG) announced a collaboration with the American Heart Association to raise awareness about heart disease affecting women in the U.S. The partnership includes a pledge of up to $1 million over three years to support the Go Red for Women initiative. Customers can contribute to the cause and receive $5 off purchases over $15 at Big Lots stores until February 14. On National Wear Red Day (February 5), donations through the AHA's website will be matched by Big Lots, up to $333,333 each year. This initiative aims to enhance women's heart health awareness.

Big Lots, Inc. (NYSE: BIG) reported a 7.5% increase in comparable sales for Q4 2020, with strong double-digit growth across most categories, except for seasonal items. The company's ecommerce demand surged by 135%. EPS guidance for the quarter is set between $2.40 and $2.50, compared to $2.39 last year. Challenges included low Christmas inventory and supply chain issues due to COVID-19. Big Lots has continued its share repurchase program, buying 1.2 million shares at an average cost of $45.41, with $344 million remaining under its buyback authorization.

Big Lots, Inc. (NYSE: BIG) will participate in the 2021 ICR Conference, a virtual event, on January 13, 2021, starting at 9:30 AM ET. Key executives, including President and CEO Bruce Thorn, will engage in a fireside chat broadcast live. Investors can access the livestream and an archive through the Investor Relations section of Big Lots' website, available until midnight on January 20, 2021. Big Lots operates 1,411 stores across 47 states, focusing on home essentials and offering robust e-commerce capabilities.

Big Lots reported a net income of $29.9 million ($0.76 per share) for Q3 2020, exceeding guidance of $0.50 to $0.70.

This marks a significant decrease from the $127 million ($3.25 per share) reported in Q3 2019, which included a one-time benefit of $136.6 million. Net sales increased by 18% to $1.378 billion, driven by a strong 17.8% rise in comparable sales.

The company is focusing on strategies like Operation North Star to enhance online offerings and improve customer service, while maintaining a cash position of $548 million with reduced long-term debt.

On December 2, 2020, Big Lots, Inc. (NYSE: BIG) declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.30 per common share for Q4 of fiscal 2020. The dividend is set for payment on December 30, 2020, to shareholders on record as of December 16, 2020. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Big Lots operates 1,411 stores across 47 states and offers a comprehensive ecommerce platform. The company's mission focuses on providing value through home essentials and supporting shareholders with consistent growth.

Big Lots, Inc. (NYSE: BIG) will report its third quarter fiscal 2020 results on December 4, 2020. A conference call is scheduled for 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time that same day, with a webcast available on their Investor Relations page. The call replay will be accessible until December 18, 2020 via phone. Big Lots operates 1,411 stores across 47 states, focusing on home essentials through brick-and-mortar and enhanced e-commerce capabilities.

Big Lots, Inc. (NYSE: BIG) has been recognized as the #1 retailer in Total Retail's 2020 Top Omnichannel Retailers Report for its outstanding omnichannel capabilities. The report highlighted achievements such as buy online and pick up in-store options, curbside pickup, same-day delivery via Instacart, and seamless returns. Big Lots reported a record-breaking second quarter with a 31.3% increase in comparable sales, driven by investments in e-commerce and digital platforms. The company continues to innovate its customer experience by launching ship-from-store capabilities and enhancing online shopping efficiencies.