Big crowds at Big Lots

MILLVILLE – About 50 customers awaited the opening of the city’s newest closeout retailer Friday morning, and were greeted with balloons, cake and free hats once inside.

Big Lots on Bluebird Lane opened shortly before 9 a.m., and it didn’t take long for customers to pack the aisles with shopping carts full of items.

The 21,558-square-foot store took three months to build, and sits between Lowe’s and Planet Fitness, which plans to open in early November.

The first 100 customers to Big Lots on Friday were awarded with scratch off coupons worth $5 to $100. That mark was hit by 9:10 a.m.

Katie Dobrosky of Port Norris arrived a few minutes later hoping to be one of the first 100 people.

But that didn’t stop the mother of two — soon to be three — from her goal: getting a jump start on Christmas shopping.

“I have two little boys and another on the way,” Dobrosky said. “I definitely have to get started early.”

Fortescue residents Judy and Lew Headley sat in the furniture section for a few minutes to briefly enjoy the comfort of a new couch they purchased.

“I’ve been waiting for it to go on sale,” Judy Headley said. “This has been a long time coming for Millville. It’s something besides Walmart.”

Big Lots has nearly 1,500 stores in 48 states. The Millville store, along with Planet Fitness, will occupy the space of a former Acme supermarket which closed three years ago.

Prior to the Millville opening, the closest Big Lots was in Bridgeton.

“When shoppers visit this new store they will find name brands, quality products and low prices,” said Andrew Stein, Big Lots senior vice president and chief customer officer. “Combine that with a team of associates that are dedicated to exceptional customer service, and Millville shoppers will find visiting their new Big Lots is always worth the trip.”

City resident Kathy Horner said she plans on making trips to the new store at least once a week. She used to be a frequent visitor to the Bridgeton store, as well as another in Cape May Court House.

“I’ve been ready to come here since I learned they were coming a few months ago,” Horner said. “I went to the other stores just once a month because they’re so far. I don’t like going those distances by myself.”

For the latest news, follow @ChrisTorresDJ