Residents Debate Future of Former Big Lots Store

by Lesley Misko

The availability of local commercial real estate spaces like the former Big Lots in Boyertown and Hollenbach’s has given rise to discussion about what new businesses might fill those vacant spaces. Of course, people have their preferences.

Recently, local resident Andrew Cordingley kicked off discussion in a Facebook group by posing the question, “I heard a sweet little rumor today that the Big Lots might become an Aldi? Anyone have any insight on that…?”

While no one was able to answer Cordingley’s question, people agree that if the rumor proves to be true, that would be “sweet.”

“That would be awesome,” Greg Novack and Teresa Medvetz responded, while Sandy Houck Reitnauer and Sheri Lynne Harvey-Miller agree they “would love it.” Carol Kehl offered specific reasons for Aldi being an excellent choice: “Amazingly low prices with quality foods.”

As the discussion continued, stacking up 90-plus comments, others shared their approval for Aldi, but some commentors dampened the spirits of the hopefuls. Ian Anderson, for example, offered the practical observation that, “There’s no way they’d put an Aldi there with one literally four minutes down [route] 100 and another one over by the Home Depot.”

For a time, the suggestions for filling the vacant properties turned away from food: Hobby Lobby, Job Lots, and Home Goods were all mentioned. Some folks said they thought entertainment space, especially for teenagers, would be the best use. “I would love to see it turned into a skating rink or a bowling alley! Not much for kids to do around here especially for teens” remarked Amy Lightkep. Fellow resident Steven Slagle agreed, but suggests “a trampoline playground” instead.

Inevitably, the conversation returned to food with Cordingley commenting, “I miss Bonanza more than I can put into words and I will die holding on to the regret of it closing.”

He isn’t the only one. “I was psyched to find a Bonanza a handful of weeks ago while at a wrestling tournament for my son. The kids got no say in where we ate that day!!! It was out near Williamsport and more delicious than I even remembered,” commented Megan Varady-Chec. “I hope it’s a buffet ala Bonanza. Since the same people own all the diners around here, they should open a Bonanza type place there. Just sayin’,” offered Kevin Bates.

Chick-Fil-A also received several positive mentions, while in contrast, people were clear about not wanting another pizza restaurant.

Finally, group members came together around a suggestion offered by Jeanie Steckel: Trader Joe’s, the grocery store with legions of devoted fans. Phil Haddad and Amanda Kline are just two of the many who agreed. A couple of posters, however, said they think Trader Joe's is unlikely because Boyertown doesn't meet the target demographic for the chain.

A visit to the Trader Joe's website indicates that they are opening 21 new stores around the country in 2025. Two of them are in Pennsylvania, but not near Boyertown—which gave Kristen Novitski Moyer a plan. “I filled out this request location form as soon as I heard Big Lots was closing,” she posted.

Readers can fill one out too, by clicking here: https://www.traderjoes.com/.../conta.../request-a-store.html

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