DUBOIS – Sears Holdings has announced the closure of more than 100 Kmart stores, including the DuBois location at 5820 Shaffer Rd., in the Sandy Plaza.
“Sears Holdings will continue to strategically and aggressively evaluate our store space and productivity, and accelerate the closing of some unprofitable stores,” stated a company announcement.
On Dec. 27 the company informed associates at 30 Kmart stores and 16 Sears stores that their stores would be closing this spring.
On Jan. 4 it informed associates at 78 Kmart stores and 26 Sears stores that their stores would also be closing.
The majority of stores will close their doors at the end of March. DuBois’ Sears store is not listed for closure.
In a statement, officials of Sears Holdings say: “The decision to close stores is a difficult but necessary step as we take actions to strengthen the company’s operations and fund its transformation.
“Many of these stores have struggled with their financial performance for years, and we have kept them open to maintain local jobs and in the hopes that they would turn around.
“But in order to meet our objective of returning to profitability, we have to make tough decisions and will continue to do so, which will give our better performing stores a chance at success.
“Eligible associates impacted by these store closures will receive severance and will have the opportunity to apply for open positions at area Kmart or Sears stores.”
Customers can use the store locator function online to find the location of their nearest Kmart and Sears stores.
Liquidation sales will begin as early as Jan. 6 at all closing stores.
