The ideal owner candidate is outgoing, results-oriented and committed to success. In addition to possessing good, basic sales skills, you also need to be able to motivate and manage employees. Owners must be willing to focus their energies primarily on running the business and providing exemplary customer service.
The average initial investment is estimated to be $65,000 - $75,000*. However, the size of your store and necessary leasehold improvements will determine your actual start-up costs. You must have three months working capital available with a net worth of $100,000.
* This estimate is provided only as guidance. If you choose to build your own facility, the investment necessary to purchase real estate and construct or remodel the building varies significantly by location and can exceed this estimate.
No. Sears does not collect any fees or royalties and the inventory remains under Sears' ownership, so there are no inventory costs.
Profitability varies depending upon a number of factors including the amount of sales, store location, number of households in the market, operating expenses, lease/real estate costs and your ability to manage and control the business.
Yes, but the owner of the store must devote his or her personal efforts to operating the store day to day. The owner is responsible for all employee and staffing decisions.
The Sears team will assist you in finding a location and facility that meets our approval. Market requirements and your resources will determine whether you will buy, build or lease the facility.
Our team will guide you through market analysis, site location, financing options, lease negotiations and construction or retrofit. We will also provide instructions on fixturing and merchandising in the store and help to prepare for the opening.
Our dedicated training staff will instruct you in the day-to-day operations and management of your store. Initial training will take place in one of our Certified Training Stores, operated by our best Sears Hometown Store owners.
Next, you will be ready for an in-depth week of training at our company Support Center where you will learn about selling skills, commissions, advertising, operational processes and merchandising your store. During this week, you will also spend a day with a trainer at a company owned Hometown Store to further hone your skills.
Our field team, along with national and local trainers, will further supplement your development. You will also receive Sales Today, a monthly publication with product information, selling strategies and access to a variety of courses on eLearning, our online training tool.
Yes. Established Sears Hometown Stores are available for purchase from current owners. Negotiations and agreements to purchase an existing store are solely between the owner and prospective buyer. However, Sears must approve the candidate based on their qualifications to own and operate a Sears Hometown Store.
Complete the Request for Information on this site. We will review your qualifications and, if you meet our criteria, we will arrange an interview and personal meeting with you discuss this exciting opportunity!
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Interested in a Sears retail franchise or Hometown Stores opportunity? Request more information today.