Sears launches layaway service

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. Sears is following suit with fellow Sears Holdings entity Kmart by introducing its own layaway program. Beginning Nov. 16, Sears will enable customers to reserve merchandise, pay in installments and pick up the items just in time for the holidays.

"Our customers are talking and Sears is listening! Not only did we hear feedback from our customers, but we saw the very positive response to our sister retailer's -- Kmart -- layaway program," said Don Hamblen, Sears' chief marketing officer. "In this difficult economic climate, extending the layaway program at Sears is an easy decision and one that we hope will provide additional value to our customers."

The Sears layaway program is similar in scope to the Kmart program, yet provides customers with the opportunity to take advantage of Sears' products that may not be available at Kmart. The Sears layaway program will be available in Full Line and Sears Hardware Stores.