Big Lots Eyeing Former A & P Plaza

Big Lots, a Columbus, Ohio-based company that owns about 1,400 department stores across the country, is considering opening another store in Barnegat, at the site of the old A & P on Route 9.

Although no agreement has been signed, and the negotiations are not yet finalized, the company did apply for – and receive – a zoning permit from the township last month.

“All I can really tell you is that we had some discussion with Big Lots, but there is no lease as of this moment,” said David Silver, corporate director of marketing at Levin Management, a New Jersey-based leasing and management agent for the former A & P property.

Big Lots is not ready to comment on the possible move to Barnegat, the company’s corporate officials said.

But should the company decide to come here, township officials said they would welcome it.

“They did get their zoning permits, which in essence allows the use of that facility for permitted use, which it was,” said Township Committeeman Jeffrey Melchiondo, who serves as the committee’s liaison to economic development.

“Everybody was overjoyed by the fact that someone was coming to that, and with a company like Big Lots, I am sure that when they come in, they will employ lots of people. It will be an important ratable for the town, too.”

Big Lots department stores sell brand-name closeouts and bargains, including furniture, seasonal items, toys, gifts, electronics, clothing, tools and more.