Ollie's is coming to Asheboro; renovations under way at former Big Lots store

ASHEBORO — Ollie’s Bargain Outlet is scheduled to open at 1432 E. Dixie Drive, the former location of Big Lots.

Representatives of the Pennsylvania-based company say the 22,000-square-foot building is expected to be open to customers for the grand opening set for Wednesday, Oct. 21. 

Plans are to hire 55 employees and online applications are still being accepted. Meanwhile, workers are getting the building ready for shelving and products.

According to the company website, Ollie’s is “America's largest retailer of closeout merchandise and excess inventory since 1982. Our 650+ ‘semi-lovely’ stores sell merchandise of all descriptions and some beyond description. You’ll find real brands at real bargain prices in every department, from housewares and flooring to food, cookware, toys & games, electronics & more. There’s so much good stuff, you just gotta come check it out!”

The company was founded in 1982 with the first store opening at Mechanicsburg, PA. Mort Bernstein came up with the idea for the bargain outlet and brought in Mark Butler, Harry Coverman and Oliver "Ollie" Rosenberg, the company's namesake. There are now Ollie’s stores in at least 34 states, including Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Lexington, Albemarle and Sanford in North Carolina.

Ollie’s is open Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m.-7 p.m.    

For more information about Ollie’s Bargain Outlet, visit www.ollies.com.