Big Lots appoints Hayes to board

COLUMBUS, Ohio Big Lots has appointed Peter J. Hayes to its board of directors. Hayes' appointment fills a board position previously held by Sheldon M. Berman, a longstanding board member with 14 years of service to the company.

"I want to thank Shel for his dedication and service to Big Lots and for his help in choosing his successor," stated chairman and ceo Steve Fishman. "In Peter, we were able to recruit a respected industry veteran who understands the discount or value sector and the challenges of operating a large-scale retail enterprise. His energy, experience and leadership will add tremendous value to our efforts, and we are delighted to welcome Peter to our board."

Most recently, Hayes was the coo of Variety Wholesalers, a 500-store discount family apparel retail chain. He has over 35 years of senior management experience in the retail industry with companies such as Lemax Hong Kong LTD, Jan Bell Marketing, Family Dollar, Child World and Gold Circle.