Sears brings back layaway

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. — Sears announced it will offer layaway on a wide selection of merchandise. The program was made available to shoppers on Sunday, Nov. 16.

"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 program will be available in Full Line and Sears Hardware Stores.

The final day to add new merchandise to layaway will be Dec. 22, 2008. Additionally, holiday merchandise must be paid in full by Dec. 23, 2008. The layaway program does not affect the existing Fine Jewelry program. Layaway fees do apply and layaway is not available at all Sears stores. The total down payment for layaway must be $15 or 20 percent, whichever is greater.