Sears reintroducing layaway program

November 13, 2008 Hoffman Estates-based Sears Holdings Corp. is bringing layaway back to its namesake stores next week, nearly two decades after it was scrapped, following a strong response to the pay-as-you-go plan at its Kmart locations.

The move comes as shoppers look to save money during what's expected to the worst holiday shopping season in decades.

Layaway will be available beginning Sunday in virtually all Sears departments except home appliances and home electronics, following the success of the reinvigorated program at Kmart.

Kmart has maintained the program for decades, but began promoting it for the first time in years last month. Executives, who declined to release figures, called the results "tremendous."




Sears' layaway program will be available on items such as clothing and tools. Items must be purchased on or before Nov. 22 and must be picked up no later than Dec. 23.