Soft Openings III: Out with Big Lots, in with Ollie's

Our next post takes us to another store we documented before the grand opening. Chances are you have already seen this place in its previous form.

Ollie's Bargain Outlet has replaced Big Lots #5248 at the Dutchtown Plaza in Palatine Bridge, NY.

As I will not be there for its grand opening, I have decided to document this store early. As noted, the store will have its grand opening on June 18th, the day after this post goes up. As OSJL and Ollie's are key players in the closeout arena here in the Northeast, they have ended up with the leases of various Big Lots stores that have closed months ago. Ollie's also ended up with Big Lots #5294 in Painted Post.

Cart Tax: As this is a newer store, it has these newer foreign-made carts.

I do not remember there being carpet in here when this was Big Lots, as it was not an SotF store. I have no idea why Ollie's put carpet in here.

Food items are on the right side, along the front wall. As Ollie's moved in fairly quickly, the store (fortunately) still has tile.

Registers along the front wall, similar to how Big Lots arranged their registers. Also there are fabric gazebos displayed along the front corridor.

Books, like many Ollie's stores, are located along the left wall.

Carpets and flooring are located in the back of the store. Also note that they did not remove the drop ceiling in this area to put in an open ceiling like they have done in the past. That is also due to them moving in quickly.

Looking back toward the front. Hardware can be seen here.