LAPLACE — Beginning in 2019, Big Lots customers in LaPlace will notice a revamped store interior that places furniture front and center.

Baby products will be discontinued, while other departments would be offered in a condensed format to place the emphasis on furniture, home goods and food, according to assistant manager Julie Irwin.

Irwin said renovations are part of a nationwide Big Lots “store of the future” campaign prompted by customer surveys indicating furniture sells best.

“It’s going to be more customer friendly, with a new look and better organization so it’s easier for ‘Jennifer’ to shop,” Irwin said, referring to the fictitious name Big Lots uses to represent all customers.

Home décor, health and beauty products, food, seasonal offerings, tools, light bulbs and automotive items would remain available for purchase, Irwin said. Furniture, currently housed in the back corner, is switching places with the seasonal department.

Irwin said the store periodically receives special buy-out items from Pier One Imports and Ashley Furniture for three-month trials. Bedroom, living room and dining room furniture pieces that sell become core products, while items that receive a lackluster response are discontinued.

Other cosmetic changes for 2019 include updated signage, new flooring, new registers and restroom renovations.

Irwin said full-store 20-percent off sales would continue to be held quarterly.

“It’s still going to be a one-stop store where you can get your basic needs,” Irwin said. “We just won’t carry baby anymore.”

Longtime customer Dr. Joyce Brown visits Big Lots several times a week to shop for her grandchildren.

“I’m kind of disappointed they are taking the baby stuff out because my grandbaby is 14 months old, and I have two more coming,” Brown said. “The diaper and wet wipe variety and prices have always been good.”

Brown said she would continue visiting Big Lots to purchase food and other products because she enjoys the atmosphere and prices.

“Oh, I love Big Lots,” Brown said. “It’s always a bargain. It’s convenient to go down the aisles with your basket because I don’t like to be too crowded when I’m shopping. Even without the baby stuff, I still would come.”

Staff member Elisha Speed said Big Lots provides a family-oriented experience and strives to make every customer smile.

“We get positive feedback because we joke around, and the customers are practically guaranteed to laugh when they come here,” Speed said. “That’s why they love to shop here.”

Big Lots has served LaPlace from 240 W. Airline Highway since 2001. Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.  on Sunday.

For more information, call 985-652-8800.