 If you're a Big Lots shopper, you may soon notice fewer stores. The discount retail chain says it will close up to 40 stores this year. The steady decline in sales increases the likelihood that Big Lots may declare bankruptcy. The Ohio-based company, which has more than 1,300 stores nationwide, told federal regulators it has substantial doubt that it can continue operating. It's not clear at this point which Big Lots locations will be shut down.