Burlington Stores Inc., one of the largest off-price retailers in the United States, has expanded its procurement channels as competition intensifies in the closeout apparel market. The company, which operates more than 1,000 stores nationwide, sources a significant portion of its inventory from manufacturers, distributors, and department-store partners seeking rapid liquidation of seasonal and unsold merchandise. As retailers accelerate markdown cycles and adjust to shifting consumer demand, Burlington buyers have increased engagement with suppliers specializing in large-volume closeouts.
The retailer’s buying strategy revolves around weekly negotiations with national apparel manufacturers, importers, and distributors. These suppliers include companies connected to labels such as Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Guess, Kenneth Cole, Nautica, Michael Kors, and major private-label producers. Burlington buyers receive offers from factories overseas, U.S. wholesalers handling production overruns, and distributors with excess orders from department stores including Macy’s, Dillard’s, Saks Off 5th, and Kohl’s.
A large share of closeout apparel reaching Burlington originates from factories producing for well-known brands that overestimated seasonal demand. Manufacturers facing warehouse congestion or cash-flow constraints frequently sell long-sitting inventory at steep discounts. Burlington buyers, who maintain long-term relationships with these suppliers, often secure exclusive access to bulk quantities of denim, sportswear, dresses, activewear, and children’s apparel.
Another significant supply channel involves department-store cancellations. Retailers that alter seasonal merchandising plans may cancel remaining units of existing orders, leaving importers with fully produced but undelivered goods. Burlington acquires these lots through negotiated deals with distribution hubs in New Jersey, California, and Georgia, where apparel importers store inventory arriving from Vietnam, Bangladesh, China, and India.
Liquidation partners also play a role. Companies such as B-Stock, Via Trading, and Merchandize Liquidators manage bulk apparel sourced from retailers and manufacturers. Burlington buyers monitor these channels to identify opportunities involving national brands in new or near-new condition. These partnerships ensure a constant inflow of merchandise even when production cycles fluctuate.
Burlington’s advantage lies in its ability to move large volume quickly. The company’s store network and rapid turn model enable buyers to commit to multi-pallet and full-truckload deals, a capacity smaller retailers rarely match. This buying power allows Burlington to negotiate lower per-unit costs and shorten the time manufacturers hold inventory.
The company’s supply chain infrastructure supports fast movement from ports to stores. Distribution centers in New Jersey, Florida, California, Illinois, and Pennsylvania allow Burlington to process thousands of cartons daily. Items purchased through closeout deals are sorted, ticketed, and shipped within tight timelines to capitalize on demand for branded apparel at value-driven price points.
This sourcing model aligns with broader industry shifts. Off-price retailers such as TJX Companies and Ross Stores have intensified efforts to acquire excess merchandise, increasing competition among buyers. Burlington’s expansion of store count has raised its need for consistent inflow of apparel across categories that perform well among budget-conscious consumers. Dresses, athleisure, children’s clothing, and branded outerwear remain among the highest-turning segments.
Export markets also influence supply chains. Importers with overstock frequently face pressure from overseas buyers operating in Latin America, the Middle East, and West Africa. Burlington’s ability to place large domestic orders helps secure U.S.-based deals before goods are diverted overseas.
As apparel manufacturers continue to deal with variable demand and shorter trend cycles, closeout opportunities are expected to remain plentiful. Burlington’s established supplier network, combined with its ability to handle substantial volume, positions the company as a dominant buyer of closeout apparel in the evolving off-price retail landscape.
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