The new owner of Ohio-based Big Lots is auctioning off the leases of more than 500 stores, including several Columbus-area locations. Gordon Brothers Retail Partners closed on a last-minute agreement to acquire Big Lots earlier in January and has since listed the leases of more than 500 stores as part of

While not much information is available, the company's plans to sell many store leases may provide some insight.

The CEO and president of Big Lots in December said the company remained "hopeful" about keeping some stores open.