(NEXSTAR) — Two additional waves Big Lots stores are scheduled to reopen in May, with the first set of stores opening their doors on Thursday.

Earlier this month, nine Big Lots stores reopened as part of a deal the retailer previously reached with Gordon Brothers Retail Partners. The deal stipulated that Variety Wholesalers would acquire hundreds of Big Lots stores, which would retain the original branding.

In a Monday press release, Variety Wholesalers said it had received "positive customer response" to the initial store reopenings. Lisa Seigies, president and CEO of Variety Wholesalers, said the brand is excited to bring 132 more Big Lots stores "back to life in May."

“The customer response to the newly expanded assortment of fresh inventory and great deals has been overwhelmingly positive," Seigies said in a statement. "The Big Lots! stores opening in May show our continued commitment to providing the best value to our customers with apparel for the family, everyday needs for the home, kitchen, and pantry plus a huge selection of famous brands. I couldn’t be prouder of the dedicated team who made it possible for us to serve these communities again!"

These reopening stores are primarily in the southern and eastern portions of the U.S. Variety Wholesalers previously provided Nexstar with a list of stores set to open in both waves.

Stores in the first wave span across 12 states:

Alabama

• Mobile: 5363 Highway 90 W Ste C
• Athens: 603 US Highway 72 W
• Decatur: 1820 6th Avenue SE
• Dothan: 2821 Montgomery Highway

Georgia

• Fort Oglethorpe: 558 Battlefield Parkway
• Cornelia: 323 Habersham Village Circle
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