Sears seeks more SWSs (stores within stores)

Recent Sears Hometown Stores stores-within-a-store openings aren’t accidents or anomalies. They’re part of the Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores’ effort to diversity and expand in new markets.

Sears Hometown Stores says it is looking to partner with strong, suburban or rural businesses that have product offerings aligned with the Hometown Store's collection, and between 2,000 sq. ft. and 5,000 sq. ft. to fill in their location.

According to a spokeswoman, currently there are 13 Sears stores within stores open, with eight of these in a hardware-type business, including the most recent example inside Nelson Ace Hardware in Selma, California.

The "store with-in a store" program is an extension of Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores' conventional Sears Hometown Store model.

Sears says the new dealership/franchise opportunity allows independent grocery, furniture, flooring, lumber, hardware and related home category store owners to expand their product lines to better cater to consumer demand without having to purchase any inventory. Merchandise options include an appliance-only format or appliances with tools and lawn and garden equipment.

Under the arrangment, all inventory is provided by Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores on consignment to the owner. Store with-in-a-store partners are not required to pay for inventory or freight expenses.