Discount chain Big Lots, which filed for bankruptcy in September, reached a deal that will keep hundreds of its stores and distribution centers open.

Big Lots announced it would be sold to Gordon Brothers Retail Partners, a firm specializing in distressed businesses. Gordon Brothers will then transfer Big Lots’ stores, distribution centers and other assets to other retailers.

“This sale agreement and transfer represents the best opportunity to preserve jobs, maximize the value of the estate and ensure the continuity of the Big Lots brand,” said Bruce Thorn, president and CEO of Big Lots , in a press release. “We are grateful to our associates nationwide for their courage and resilience throughout this process. »

FDA wants better testing of cosmetics

Cosmetics companies should take additional steps to ensure that all products containing talc are free of asbestos, under a federal rule proposed late last week.

The Food and Drug Administration’s and congressionally mandated proposal aims to reassure consumers about the safety of makeup, baby powder and other personal care products.

This follows years of lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson and other companies alleging links between talc-based baby powder and cancer.

Dr. Linda Katz, director of the FDA’s Office of Cosmetics and Colors, said in a statement that the agency has “carefully considered the scientific evidence and complex policy issues related to the detection and identification of asbestos in talc and cosmetic products containing talc.”

“We believe the proposed testing techniques are suitable methods to detect asbestos and help ensure the safety of cosmetic products containing talc,” Katz said.