Sears is a retail company that was founded in 1892 by Richard Warren Sears and Alvah Curtis Roebuck. It started as a mail-order catalog business, selling a wide range of products including clothing, appliances, and tools. Over the years, Sears expanded its operations and became a major department store chain in the United States.
At its peak, Sears was one of the largest retailers in the country, with thousands of stores nationwide. It was known for its wide selection of products and its popular brands like Kenmore appliances and Craftsman tools. Sears also had a strong presence in the automotive industry, with its auto centers offering services and products for cars.
However, Sears faced financial difficulties in the early 21st century due to increased competition from online retailers and changing consumer preferences. The company struggled to adapt to the digital age and faced declining sales and profits. In 2018, Sears Holdings Corporation, the parent company of Sears and Kmart, filed for bankruptcy.
Since then, Sears has undergone significant restructuring and store closures. Some of its assets were acquired by Transformco, a company owned by Eddie Lampert, the former CEO of Sears Holdings. As of 2021, Sears operates a limited number of stores, primarily in shopping malls, and focuses on selling appliances, tools, and home goods. The company also operates an online store.
