Big Lots, Inc.  (NYSE: BIG) today reported net income of  $98.0 million, or  $2.59  per diluted share, for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2020 ended  January 30, 2021, which compares to the company’s guidance, as provided on  January 13, 2021, of  $2.40  to  $2.50  per diluted share. Net  income for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2019 was  $93.8 million, or  $2.39  per diluted share. Net sales for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2020 totaled  $1,738 million, an 8.1% increase compared to  $1,607 million  for the same period last year, with the growth resulting from a 7.9% increase in comparable sales, and sales growth from new and relocated non-comp stores, offset by a slightly lower average store count year-over-year.

Remarking on today’s announcement,  Bruce Thorn, President and CEO of  Big Lots  stated, “I am pleased to report that our fiscal fourth quarter ended strongly, with a record fourth quarter comparable sales increase despite softer than planned traffic in December and inventory and supply chain challenges during the quarter. We also delivered another stellar quarter of growth across our ecommerce and omnichannel platforms with sales increasing over 130%. Throughout the quarter, our strategic investments and the nimbleness of our teams allowed us to serve our customers better than ever, as well as adjust to market dynamics to deliver excellent top-line and bottom-line results.”

Mr. Thorn  further remarked, “Fiscal 2020 was the strongest year in the history of  Big Lots, occurring against the backdrop of an unprecedented year of uncertainty for our nation and industry. The results were the culmination of the tremendous efforts of our associates in our distribution centers, our stores, and our corporate headquarters, combined with the ongoing and successful rollout of our  Operation North Star  strategies. Beyond our 2020 results, we believe these strategies position us for ongoing success, supported by our steadfast focus on customer service, our assortment of everyday essentials and stay-at-home products, and our growing customer file.  During 2021, we will continue the roll-out of our Lot and Queue Line programs to the balance of our stores, expand our offerings under the Broyhill brand, further scale our greatly enhanced ecommerce capabilities, and accelerate new store openings. With the dedication and commitment of our 37,000 associates to drive these initiatives, we’re confident that 2021 will be another successful year in the evolution of  Big Lots.”