Sears has long had a policy of emphasizing clothing sales. You see this emphasis in the relatively large sales floor space devoted to it in full-service Sears stores, a standard retail indicator.
The judgment behind a clothing emphasis is puzzling, perhaps there is more markup in clothing. I have bought several items of clothing at Sears in a long life, but it has never been my primary or even secondary source for clothes.
Sears is known for good tools, major appliance sales and service, and auto service focusing on replacement of wear items: batteries and tires. One might also buy housewares at Sears - towels, sheets, etc.
Few identify Sears as their first choice for clothing. Therefore I was not surprised to read a CNBC article indicating Sears is reducing its emphasis on clothing sales. The decision seems long overdue.
