Only Big Lots in Coachella Valley set to close amid bargain store closures

In June, Big Lots announced it would be closing dozens of stores around the country, citing inflation, cost of goods, and competitive and economic pressures.

They had said about 35-40 stores would close, but the number is looking far bigger.

In California alone, 60 stores are expected to close, according to their websites. One of the stores on that list is in Indio, the only Big Lots in the Coachella Valley.

Many Coachella Valley residents and Big Lots customers are unhappy about the closure.

“They’re all gone around here that is drivable to get to," said shopper Karen Beck. "So, I don’t know what I’m going to do.”

Other bargain stores are seeing similar closures, making it harder for people to find deals.

According to the Big Lots website, essential items like a 24-pack of water, and food items such as dried cranberries and beef steak bites, are comparably lower in price than other places.

“This bag of coffee is 5 bucks. This will last you over a month. You can’t go to Starbucks and even get one cup of coffee anymore for 5 bucks," commented Beck.

News Channel 3's Luis Avila spoke to shoppers that say affordable prices like these are small and few in supply and that this problem continues to grow as the U.S. continues to grapple with inflation.

“We don’t have a lot of low prices for people that really can’t afford to eat let alone buy things like [clothing hangers]," said shopper Joyce McPeek.

According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, prices have surged 20.8% since 2020.

“It does help with those people with lower income, and even myself," stated resident Lady B. "I just love a deal… A lot of families come and shop here and it’s very beneficial.”

Others are concerned about what could happen if stores like this continue to close.

“I think of my grandkids that are in their 20s…" commented McPeek. "It’s getting out of most everyone’s reach let alone young people today.”

The exact closing date is still unknown.