Closeout retailer Big Lots testing cleaner look

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Big Lots hopes cutting out the clutter will bring out more customers. <br> <br> Some consumers have said its stores, which specialize in closeout merchandise, provide good value but appear too crowded and are hard to navigate because the aisles are too narrow. <br> <br> At its two newest central Ohio stores, the aisles are wider and product organization has been improved, and there is more emphasis on brand-name products. <br> <br> The stores, in suburban Dublin and the city of Delaware, also are in higher-income areas than most Big Lots outlets. <br> <br> &#34;Customers are saying the prices are better and we have more brands. The truth is that nothing is changed. It just looks better,&#34; said Big Lots Chairman Michael Potter. <br> <br> If the new stores prove successful, the changes will show up in other stores throughout the nation, said officials of the Columbus-based company. <br> <br> A new floor plan for the stores highlights their best deals near the entrance in an area with orange flooring. The wider aisles direct shoppers toward four categories of goods: clothing, food, housewares and furniture. <br> <br> Brighter lighting, a customer-information kiosk and upgraded display fixtures complete the package of improvements. <br> <br> &#34;We wanted to heighten people&#39;s awareness that we do have brands,&#34; said Kent Larsson, Big Lots executive vice president. &#34;But we have not changed our direction in any way.&#34; <br> <br> The 1,300-store chain spruced up its existing stores last year, improving lighting and store cleanliness. Customer counts and sales have increased for five consecutive months. <br> <br>

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