Orlando, FL – June 5, 2025 – RTC Group, a leading provider of retail technology solutions, is proud to announce its pivotal role in Big Lots! nationwide resurgence. With the reopening of 78 stores today, including the St. Cloud store and 11 other Florida locations, completes the final wave of an aggressive plan to revive 219 locations. Central to this transformation is RTC’s advanced Tablet Gun Point-of-Sale (POS) technology, enabling a seamless and modernized customer experience. (Big Lots to reopen 60 locations in a dozen states. See this list.)

 

Following its 2024 bankruptcy, 219 Big Lots! have emerged under new ownership by Variety Wholesalers, unveiling a bold strategy focused on delivering a “treasure hunt” shopping experience. This new approach emphasizes value-driven offerings, including name-brand apparel and essential household goods, appealing to a broader customer base and reinvigorating the brand. 

 

“We’re thrilled to bring the Big Lots! brand back to life by offering more deals than ever, lots of famous brands, and a new apparel department for the entire family,” said Lisa Seigies, CEO of Variety Wholesalers .

 

Variety also stated: “We’re opening stores quickly so we can serve the community. We know the stores won’t be perfect to start, but each week we’ll add more new products as we build towards the grand opening celebration in the fall. Every time a customer visits Big Lots! We want them to find something new and exciting!” https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/general/big-lots-stores-to-open-this-week-after-third-wave-comeback-from-bankruptcy/ar-AA1EEyTO

 

As a long-time technology partner to Variety Wholesalers since the first Point-of-Sale installation in 2010, RTC was the natural choice to power the Big Lots! retail revival. RTC’s Tablet Gun POS was selected for its ease of use, robust functionality, and proven results in supporting customer-centric initiatives. Today, RTC solutions are deployed across all 397 Variety Wholesalers-owned stores, including (Roses Discount Stores, former Maxway stores, and Super 10 stores).  In addition to POS, RTC HTP-Link iSeries Communications solution is also deployed chainwide for store polling as well as transaction management.

 

“In February, we approached RTC with an extremely aggressive Store Systems rollout schedule: install new Point-of-Sale in all 219 Big Lots! stores, including 700 registers, within 90 days,” said Rich Boettcher, Executive VP of IT at Variety Wholesalers.  “The RTC team stepped up and exceeded expectations. We relied heavily on them to provide the support and expertise we needed to make this rollout successful.”

 

With over 36 years of experience in the retail technology industry, RTC provides a comprehensive suite of store systems solutions, hardware, and consulting services tailored to the unique needs of retailers like Big Lots! RTC’s solutions deliver faster transactions, real-time inventory visibility, and seamless integration with back-office systems.

 

“Our mission has always been to empower retailers with innovative technology that drives efficiency and elevates customer satisfaction,” said Bruce Hicks, President & CEO at RTC Group. “Partnering with Big Lots during this critical initiative aligns perfectly with our commitment to driving retail innovation and lends itself to our moniker as the MD of Retail IT.   Our innovative Tablet Gun POS applications ensure a unified and engaging shopping experience across all reopened Big Lots locations. These tools play a crucial role in executing the retailer’s new store layout and merchandising strategy.”

 

As Big Lots continues its phased reopening, customers nationwide will experience a refreshed, value-driven retail environment enabled by RTC’s powerful and reliable technology. This collaboration highlights how strategic partnerships and next-generation solutions can drive industry-leading turnarounds. (About RTC | RTC Group, Inc., Big Lots makes major shelf change as CEO reveals ‘treasure hunt’ will be added to all 219 stores)

Founded in 1989, RTC Group is a recognized leader in the retail technology industry, providing end-to-end store systems solutions and hardware. With a focus on POS systems, ERP enhancements, and comprehensive consulting services, RTC has consistently ranked among the top retail tech firms for customer satisfaction. Their commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions continues to drive success for retailers nationwide. (About RTC | RTC Group, Inc.)

Lee Williams
Marketing
RTC Group
Phone: 407-352-5607 ext. 307
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.rtc-group.com