Sears

Sears, originally Sears, Roebuck and Co., is an American retail company that began as a mail-order business in the late 19th century and later expanded into department stores.

Sears, originally Sears, Roebuck and Co., is an American retail company that began as a mail-order business in the late 19th century and later expanded into department stores. It became one of the largest retailers in the United States before declining sharply in the 21st century. After bankruptcy and asset sales, Sears continued under new ownership through Transformco.

History

Sears was founded in the 1890s by Richard W. Sears and Alvah C. Roebuck, building on earlier mail-order watch sales. It grew from a catalog business into a major department-store chain and became a dominant name in American retail.

Expansion and peak

In the 20th century, Sears expanded across the United States and became the country’s largest retailer for a period. Its catalog and store network helped shape consumer shopping habits in rural, suburban, and urban markets.

Decline and bankruptcy

Sears later faced intense competition and changing consumer behavior, especially from discount chains and e-commerce. Sears Holdings filed for bankruptcy in 2018, marking the end of its long run as an independent retail giant.

Sears Canada

Sears operated in Canada through Sears Canada, a separate retail business that was once a prominent department-store chain before it was liquidated in 2017.

Legacy

Sears is remembered for its role in popularizing mail-order retail, department stores, and branded household goods. It remains a notable example of the rise and decline of a major American retailer.