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Sears Operadora México, S.A. de C.V. (Spanish pronunciation: [ˈseaɾs]) is a department store chain located in Mexico, operating 93 stores all over Mexico as of 2024.[2] Sears México is operated by Grupo Sanborns,[3] a division of Grupo Carso.

Key Information

History

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Early history

[edit]

On 26 February 1947, the first Sears in Mexico was opened in Colonia Roma, Mexico City (now the site of the Plaza Insurgentes mall) by Sears, Roebuck and Co.[4][5]

In the initial three days after opening, approximately 110,000 customers visited the store, with total sales reaching about $600,000. During its first week, the store faced challenges in maintaining inventory levels, necessitating the delivery of additional goods via three flights from a Texas warehouse operated by the parent company. The store's entry into the Mexican market has been viewed by some as a catalyst for changing consumer patterns, influencing a shift towards different economic priorities.[4][6]

In its first year of operation, the Mexico City store did around $16 million in business, almost twice as much as was expected by its parent company. However, just a few months after opening, in order to prevent a drain on the nation's foreign-currency reserves, Mexico barred some nonessential imports and raised tariffs on others. This impacted the Mexico City store, which was at the time importing around 90 percent of its merchandise.[4] This forced the store to create alliances with Mexican manufacturers. It also brought interest in factories that were producing its merchandise. In 1949, Sears México had around 2,500 Mexican suppliers furnishing some 80 percent of the goods in the Mexico City store.[4]

A second and third Sears were opened in 1949 in Monterrey and Guadalajara, and by 1953, Sears had seven stores in Mexico with annual sales of more than $15 million and employed around 1,900 people. These employees received cost-of-living allowances, paid vacations, retirement funds and free medical treatment.[4] In 1956, there were 17 Sears stores in Mexico with a sales volume of around $25 million. There were around 3,200 employees at that time, all but 16 of whom were Mexican citizens. Additionally, about 90 percent of the merchandise sold in its stores was made in Mexico.[4]

Grupo Carso

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On 2 April 1997, Sears formed a strategic alliance with Grupo Carso, owned by Mexican businessman Carlos Slim Helú, through which it was agreed to sell 85% of Sears México to Grupo Carso, which, as of 2022, owns 100% of the company.[7]

Dorian's

[edit]
Main article: Dorian's

In 2004, Grupo Carso bought Dorian's Tijuana, S.A. de C.V., a mid-range department store chain present mostly in northwestern Mexico, established in Downtown Tijuana in 1959.[8] Carso operated it as a subsidiary of Inmuebles Borgru, S.A. de C.V., which was in turn a subsidiary of Inmuebles Carso, S.A.B. de C.V.[9] In that same year, Dorian's purchased five department store locations from JCPenney, the U.S.-based retailer which had been operating in Mexico since 1995.

In April 2009, Dorian's brand was jettisoned. As such, 13 of the 14 Dorian's locations were converted to Sears.[9] In Tijuana: three stores Plaza Río Tijuana, Plaza Carrousel in La Mesa, Centro Comercial Mesa de Otay); in Cancún—Plaza Las Américas (formerly JCPenney), in Chihuahua City—Plaza de Sol (formerly JCPenney); Downtown Ensenada; Downtown La Paz and Forjadores La Paz; in León, Guanajuato—Plaza Mayor (formerly JCPenney); in Mérida—Plaza las Américas (formerly JCPenney), in Mexicali—Centro Comercial Cachanilla; in the Monterrey area—San Pedro Garza García (formerly JCPenney and since moved to San Agustín); and a store in San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora (since closed).[10] The exception was Downtown Tijuana Dorian's flagship which was closed in May 2009[11] and is now the "Plaza de la Tecnología", a market hall of consumer technology vendors.

Current status

[edit]

Despite the bankruptcy of its former parent company, the closing of many stores in the United States and Canada, and the subsequent sale to ESL Investments, Sears México still remains open for business due to different ownership.

In July 2021, it was announced that the Mexican company was considering renaming its stores to distance itself from its failing former parent in the United States.[12]

Locations

[edit]

Sears has 93 stores across the country, including 25 in Greater Mexico City (14 in Mexico City proper, 11 in the suburbs in the State of Mexico). The remaining 68 stores are spread across the country from Tijuana to Cancún, with a presence in all 32 states except Campeche.[2]

In Greater Mexico City, branches are located in the city proper at Portal San Ángel, Parque Via Vallejo in Azcapotzalco, Plaza Universidad, the World Trade Center in Nápoles, Perisur, Centro Santa Fe, Avenida Juárez in the Historic Center, Forum Buenavista, Plaza Insurgentes (Colonia Roma (the first in Mexico, opening in 1947), Plaza Lindavista, Parque Tezontle, Parque Las Antenas in Iztapalapa, Pabellón Polanco, and Galerías Coapa in Tlalpan. In the State of Mexico portion of the metro area, Sears stores are located at Galerías Atizapan, Plaza Chimalhuacan, Zentralia Coacalco, Cosmopol in Coacalco, Mexipuerto Cuatro Caminos, Luna Parc Cuautitlan Izcalli, Plaza las Américas in Ecatepec, Paseo Interlomas, Plaza Ciudad Jardín in Ciudad Nezahualcóyotl, Plaza Satélite and Plaza Tlalne Fashion Mall in Tlalnepantla.[13]

Map of Sears stores in Mexico
Irapuato
Irapuato
Morelia–Las Américas
Morelia–Las Américas
Plaza Río Tijuana
Plaza Río Tijuana
Ensenada
Ensenada
La Paz–Centro
La Paz–Centro
Mexicali–Cachanilla
Mexicali–Cachanilla
Tijuana–Carrousel
Tijuana–Carrousel
Insurgentes
Insurgentes
Polanco
Polanco
Universidad
Universidad
Plaza Satélite
Plaza Satélite
Perisur
Perisur
Lindavista
Lindavista
Villacoapa
Villacoapa
Monterrey San Agustín
Monterrey San Agustín
Guadalajara Plaza
Guadalajara Plaza
Centro Santa Fe
Centro Santa Fe
Angelópolis
Angelópolis
Centro Histórico de la Ciudad de México, Avenida Juárez
Centro Histórico de la Ciudad de México, Avenida Juárez
Monterrey Anáhuac
Monterrey Anáhuac
WTC
WTC
Ecatepec
Ecatepec
Coacalco
Coacalco
Monterrey Galerías
Monterrey Galerías
Tezontle
Tezontle
Nezahualcóyotl
Nezahualcóyotl
Cuautitlán Izcalli
Cuautitlán Izcalli
Forum Buenavista
Forum Buenavista
Interlomas
Interlomas
Via Vallejo
Via Vallejo
Coacalco Cosmopol
Coacalco Cosmopol
Tlalnepantla
Tlalnepantla
San Ángel
San Ángel
Cuatro Caminos
Cuatro Caminos
Querétaro La Victoria
Querétaro La Victoria
La Paz–Forjadores
La Paz–Forjadores
Monterrey Centro
Monterrey Centro
Guadalajara Centro
Guadalajara Centro
Puebla Centro
Puebla Centro
Tampico
Tampico
Tangamanga
Tangamanga
Cuernavaca
Cuernavaca
Gomez Palacio
Gomez Palacio
León Plaza
León Plaza
Culiacán Galerías
Culiacán Galerías
Oaxaca Plaza
Oaxaca Plaza
Mérida Plaza
Mérida Plaza
Hermosillo–Galerías Mall
Hermosillo–Galerías Mall
Celaya
Celaya
Veracruz–Plaza Las Américas
Veracruz–Plaza Las Américas
Cancun–Plaza Las Américas
Cancun–Plaza Las Américas
Metepec
Metepec
Torreón
Torreón
Chihuahua Plaza
Chihuahua Plaza
Querétaro Plaza
Querétaro Plaza
Culiacán Forum
Culiacán Forum
Guadalajara Galerías
Guadalajara Galerías
Ciudad Juárez
Ciudad Juárez
Coatzacoalcos
Coatzacoalcos
Tuxtla Gutiérrez
Tuxtla Gutiérrez
Xalapa Plaza Las Américas
Xalapa Plaza Las Américas
Aguascalientes Altaria
Aguascalientes Altaria
Monterrey Citadel
Monterrey Citadel
Pachuca Plaza Q
Pachuca Plaza Q
Mérida Altabrisa
Mérida Altabrisa
Tepic
Tepic
Morelia Paseo Altozano
Morelia Paseo Altozano
Nuevo Veracruz
Nuevo Veracruz
Villahermosa
Villahermosa
San Luis Plaza
San Luis Plaza
Playa Del Carmen
Playa Del Carmen
Paseo Durango
Paseo Durango
Colima Zentralia
Colima Zentralia
Celaya Galerías
Celaya Galerías
Atizapán
Atizapán
Mazatlán Galerias
Mazatlán Galerias
Cuernavaca Averanda
Cuernavaca Averanda
Paseo Los Mochis
Paseo Los Mochis
Zacatecas Galerías
Zacatecas Galerías
Irapuato Cibeles
Irapuato Cibeles
Tampico Altama
Tampico Altama
Chimalhuacán
Chimalhuacán
Mérida Las Américas
Mérida Las Américas
San Luis Potosí Centro
San Luis Potosí Centro
Veracruz Centro
Veracruz Centro
Durango Centro
Durango Centro
Mérida Centro
Mérida Centro
Jalapa Centro
Jalapa Centro
Córdoba
Córdoba
Minatitlán
Minatitlán
Parque Las Antenas
Parque Las Antenas
Parque Tepeyac
Parque Tepeyac
Parque Puebla
Parque Puebla
class=notpageimage|
Sears stores in Mexico. On a desktop or laptop, mouse over the push-pin icons to see the store name.
Map of Sears stores in Mexico
Irapuato
Irapuato
Morelia–Las Américas
Morelia–Las Américas
Plaza Río Tijuana
Plaza Río Tijuana
Ensenada
Ensenada
La Paz–Centro
La Paz–Centro
Mexicali–Cachanilla
Mexicali–Cachanilla
Tijuana–Carrousel
Tijuana–Carrousel
Insurgentes
Insurgentes
Polanco
Polanco
Universidad
Universidad
Plaza Satélite
Plaza Satélite
Perisur
Perisur
Lindavista
Lindavista
Villacoapa
Villacoapa
Monterrey San Agustín
Monterrey San Agustín
Guadalajara Plaza
Guadalajara Plaza
Centro Santa Fe
Centro Santa Fe
Angelópolis
Angelópolis
Centro Histórico de la Ciudad de México, Avenida Juárez
Centro Histórico de la Ciudad de México, Avenida Juárez
Monterrey Anáhuac
Monterrey Anáhuac
WTC
WTC
Ecatepec
Ecatepec
Coacalco
Coacalco
Monterrey Galerías
Monterrey Galerías
Tezontle
Tezontle
Nezahualcóyotl
Nezahualcóyotl
Cuautitlán Izcalli
Cuautitlán Izcalli
Forum Buenavista
Forum Buenavista
Interlomas
Interlomas
Via Vallejo
Via Vallejo
Coacalco Cosmopol
Coacalco Cosmopol
Tlalnepantla
Tlalnepantla
San Ángel
San Ángel
Cuatro Caminos
Cuatro Caminos
Querétaro La Victoria
Querétaro La Victoria
La Paz–Forjadores
La Paz–Forjadores
Monterrey Centro
Monterrey Centro
Guadalajara Centro
Guadalajara Centro
Puebla Centro
Puebla Centro
Tampico
Tampico
Tangamanga
Tangamanga
Cuernavaca
Cuernavaca
Gomez Palacio
Gomez Palacio
León Plaza
León Plaza
Culiacán Galerías
Culiacán Galerías
Oaxaca Plaza
Oaxaca Plaza
Mérida Plaza
Mérida Plaza
Hermosillo–Galerías Mall
Hermosillo–Galerías Mall
Celaya
Celaya
Veracruz–Plaza Las Américas
Veracruz–Plaza Las Américas
Cancun–Plaza Las Américas
Cancun–Plaza Las Américas
Metepec
Metepec
Torreón
Torreón
Chihuahua Plaza
Chihuahua Plaza
Querétaro Plaza
Querétaro Plaza
Culiacán Forum
Culiacán Forum
Guadalajara Galerías
Guadalajara Galerías
Ciudad Juárez
Ciudad Juárez
Coatzacoalcos
Coatzacoalcos
Tuxtla Gutiérrez
Tuxtla Gutiérrez
Xalapa Plaza Las Américas
Xalapa Plaza Las Américas
Aguascalientes Altaria
Aguascalientes Altaria
Monterrey Citadel
Monterrey Citadel
Pachuca Plaza Q
Pachuca Plaza Q
Mérida Altabrisa
Mérida Altabrisa
Tepic
Tepic
Morelia Paseo Altozano
Morelia Paseo Altozano
Nuevo Veracruz
Nuevo Veracruz
Villahermosa
Villahermosa
San Luis Plaza
San Luis Plaza
Playa Del Carmen
Playa Del Carmen
Paseo Durango
Paseo Durango
Colima Zentralia
Colima Zentralia
Celaya Galerías
Celaya Galerías
Atizapán
Atizapán
Mazatlán Galerias
Mazatlán Galerias
Cuernavaca Averanda
Cuernavaca Averanda
Paseo Los Mochis
Paseo Los Mochis
Zacatecas Galerías
Zacatecas Galerías
Irapuato Cibeles
Irapuato Cibeles
Tampico Altama
Tampico Altama
Chimalhuacán
Chimalhuacán
Mérida Las Américas
Mérida Las Américas
San Luis Potosí Centro
San Luis Potosí Centro
Veracruz Centro
Veracruz Centro
Durango Centro
Durango Centro
Mérida Centro
Mérida Centro
Jalapa Centro
Jalapa Centro
Córdoba
Córdoba
Minatitlán
Minatitlán
Parque Las Antenas
Parque Las Antenas
Parque Tepeyac
Parque Tepeyac
Parque Puebla
Parque Puebla
class=notpageimage|
Sears stores in Mexico. On a desktop or laptop, mouse over the push-pin icons to see the store name.
Number of Sears stores by state in Mexico as of January 2024[14]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Sears Mexico

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from Grokipedia
Sears Mexico, officially known as Sears Operadora México, S.A. de C.V., is a prominent department store chain in Mexico that operates as a subsidiary of Grupo Sanborns, part of the diversified conglomerate Grupo Carso owned by billionaire Carlos Slim Helú. Established through a partnership with the U.S.-based Sears, Roebuck and Co., it specializes in retailing a broad assortment of merchandise, including apparel, footwear, home appliances, electronics, furniture, toys, and sporting goods, both in physical stores and online via its e-commerce platform. As of 2024, the chain operates 93 department stores across the country, though some closures occurred in 2025; it contributes to Grupo Sanborns' extensive retail network that also includes Sanborns restaurants and other formats. Its e-commerce sales reached US$365 million in 2024. The origins of Sears Mexico trace back to February 27, 1947, when the first store opened in Mexico City's neighborhood, marking the expansion of the American retail giant into the Mexican market amid post-World War II economic recovery. By , the operation had expanded to seven stores with annual sales exceeding $15 million, while supporting over 1,300 local Mexican manufacturers through its . This early growth positioned as a pioneer in modernizing retail practices in , introducing formats, fixed pricing, and a focus on middle-class consumers. In 1997, Grupo Carso acquired a 60% stake in the company for $103 million, securing operational control and the rights to the Sears brand, which allowed it to adapt successfully to local market dynamics while the U.S. parent faced declining fortunes. Under this ownership, Sears Mexico has sustained profitability, achieving sales of around 25.4 billion Mexican pesos (approximately US$1.35 billion) across 95 stores in 2017 alone, and continuing to invest in store remodels and expansions despite some closures in 2025 due to operational challenges. Today, it remains a key player in Mexico's retail sector, benefiting from 's broader ecosystem that includes over 450 outlets nationwide as of late 2024.

History

Founding and early expansion

Sears Roebuck de México, S.A. de C.V. was incorporated in 1945 by the U.S.-based , Roebuck & Co., marking the retailer's initial entry into . The company acquired a property in for $516,000 to establish its operations, reflecting a strategic move to tap into the growing post-World War II consumer market in Mexico. The first store in opened on February 28, 1947, at Avenida Insurgentes in the neighborhood of . This flagship location drew crowds exceeding 110,000 visitors in the first three days and generated $600,000 in sales on opening day, far exceeding expectations. In its inaugural year, the store achieved approximately $16 million in total sales, nearly double the projected figure, driven by the novelty of its modern retail format. By 1953, Sears Mexico had expanded to seven stores across the country, with annual sales of $15 million USD. This growth was bolstered by the company's support for 1,300 local Mexican manufacturers through partnerships, providing financial and technical assistance, and even taking equity stakes in some factories producing items like work clothes and sports shirts. Sears introduced the fixed-price retail model with visible price tags, contrasting sharply with Mexico's traditional open-air markets where haggling was the norm; this approach appealed to middle- and upper-class consumers seeking transparency and . Throughout the and , Sears continued its expansion with new stores in major cities, reaching 17 locations by 1956, with sales of about $25 million annually and approximately 80% of merchandise sourced from Mexican producers by 1949, and 20 stores by 1959. Key milestones included openings in and Guadalajara in 1949, the Plaza Universidad mall store in 1969, and the Plaza Satélite mall location in 1971. The 1970s and 1980s saw further growth to 43 stores by 1981, including the Perisur mall in 1980, as Sears adapted to local preferences by emphasizing household appliances, men's clothing, and affordable dressmaking fabrics made in . This period solidified Sears' role in modernizing retail and fostering domestic manufacturing until its ownership transitioned to a partnership with in 1997.

Alliance with Grupo Carso

In April , Sears Roebuck de entered into a with , the Mexican conglomerate owned by billionaire , through which acquired an 85% stake in the company for operational control in . This transaction reduced the U.S.-based Roebuck & Co.'s ownership from 75% to 15%, while providing with a majority interest to guide the retailer's growth amid 's economic recovery following the 1994 peso crisis. The alliance allowed to leverage local expertise in supply chains and market adaptation, marking a shift toward greater from its American parent. The partnership evolved toward full local ownership over the ensuing years. In 2016, —a subsidiary of —acquired the remaining 14% stake from Corp., completing the transition and granting Sears Mexico complete independence from U.S. operations. This final acquisition solidified 's control, enabling Sears Mexico to operate as a fully integrated part of the Mexican retail ecosystem without reliance on American corporate strategies or financing. Under Grupo Carso's influence, Sears Mexico underwent significant operational enhancements, including store modernizations and expansions to align with evolving consumer preferences in the Mexican market. These efforts contributed to financial stability and growth, with the company reporting sales of approximately 2.18 billion pesos (US$320.6 million) in the late 1990s era of the alliance's formation, supported by a workforce of 50,122 employees. The independence from U.S. Sears allowed for tailored rebranding initiatives and investments in infrastructure, helping the retailer maintain relevance in a competitive landscape dominated by local and international chains.

Integration of Dorian's

Dorian's was established in 1959 in downtown , , , by entrepreneurs Salomón Cohen, Herman Hirch Dori, Miguel Goldstein, and Ángel García Vásquez, initially as a single that expanded into a regional chain with 14 locations primarily serving the area. In 2004, —a retail of —acquired all shares of Dorian's Tijuana, S.A. de C.V., integrating the chain as a of Inmuebles Borgru, S.A. de C.V. and aligning it operationally with Sears México under the broader umbrella established through the 1997 ownership alliance. The full merger occurred in April 2009, when Sears México converted 13 Dorian's stores to its branding across and discontinued the Dorian's name entirely, while closing one underperforming location in downtown . This integration strategically bolstered Sears México's footprint in northern Mexico's border regions, enabling expanded market reach and efficiencies through shared supply chains and centralized operations within .

Recent developments

Despite the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing by in the United States in October 2018, Sears Mexico's operations remained stable and unaffected, thanks to its full ownership by , which had acquired a 99% stake in 2016 and operated the chain independently. The Mexican subsidiary continued to report solid financial performance, insulated from the U.S. parent's struggles. The chain experienced growth in its store network, reaching 97 locations by the end of 2022, before a slight contraction to 93 stores by 2024 amid broader retail adjustments. This expansion built on earlier integrations, such as the rebranding of Dorian's stores, contributing to a stronger presence in the sector. As of mid-2025, further closures have reduced the count to approximately 91 stores. In January 2025, Sears Mexico announced plans for store closures in conjunction with sister brand Sanborns, citing operational challenges including high inflation and intensifying competition from platforms. These closures are part of efforts to streamline operations within amid a shifting retail landscape. Sears Mexico's online sales reached US$365 million in 2024, reflecting flat to slightly negative growth from the prior year, with projections indicating less than 0% growth for 2025 due to persistent market pressures. Overall, the company has demonstrated post-pandemic sales recovery, with department stores—including —reporting increases of 40-50% in key March periods as consumer spending rebounded. Under Grupo Carso's diversified portfolio, Sears Mexico has maintained profitability, supported by the retail division's 12% increase to MXN 52 billion in 2024 and stable EBITDA margins around 11%, even as the broader group navigates economic headwinds.

Corporate Structure

Ownership and subsidiaries

Sears México is operated by Sears Operadora México, S.A. de C.V., which is 99% owned by , S.A.B. de C.V.. The company was incorporated in 1947 and is headquartered in at Lago Zúrich No. 245, Edificio Presa , in the Miguel Hidalgo borough.. Sears Operadora México has no major subsidiaries. Grupo Sanborns operates as the retail arm of , S.A.B. de C.V., where Sears México plays a central role in the division's segment alongside brands such as Sanborns restaurants and stores.. Following the 2016 acquisition by of the remaining 14% stake from Corporation—increasing to 99%— México has effectively no ongoing operational ties to the U.S.-based entity, which filed for in 2018.. This structure traces back to a 1997 between and that established the current framework.. Grupo Carso, the parent conglomerate, is controlled by Helú and his family, who hold approximately 76% of its shares as of 2025.. In 2022, launched a public to acquire the remaining 13.1% minority stake in at 26 Mexican pesos per share, completing the transaction by December 2022 and fully consolidating its control over the retail subsidiary..

Management and leadership

Sears México's leadership is headed by Rodrigo Hajj Slim, who has served as since September 2020, overseeing the chain's strategic direction and operational integration within the broader retail portfolio. As a member of the third generation of the Slim family and grandson of Helú, Hajj Slim brings expertise in international business, having previously held roles in family enterprises focused on retail and . His tenure has emphasized operational efficiency amid evolving market dynamics in Mexico's retail sector. The company's governance is subject to oversight from the of , S.A.B. de C.V., chaired by Helú, which ensures alignment of México's retail strategies with the conglomerate's overarching objectives in diversified sectors such as , , and commercial operations. This board-level supervision facilitates and , integrating México's activities—operated through Sears Operadora México, S.A. de C.V.—into ' framework. Governance practices prioritize local adaptation to Mexican consumer preferences and regulatory environments, while supporting diversification across Carso's multi-industry holdings to mitigate sector-specific volatilities. As of mid-2025, Sears México contributes to ' workforce of approximately 41,416 employees, a reduction from historical levels of around 47,000 in the early , reflecting ongoing store closures and restructuring efforts that have streamlined operations. These 2025 closures, including locations like Plaza Fiesta San Agustín in , have directly impacted staffing, with decisions aimed at enhancing profitability in a competitive retail landscape.

Operations

Store formats and layout

Sears Mexico primarily operates in the full-line format, characterized by multi-level structures that segregate merchandise into dedicated sections for , home goods, appliances, and automotive services. These layouts typically place and accessories on lower floors, progressing to items, , and larger goods on upper levels, facilitating efficient through escalators and structured aisles. The design draws from traditional U.S. models but incorporates automotive sections influenced by historical integrations like Western Auto, offering parts and services in dedicated areas. Adaptations for the Mexican market include the integration of local brands and suppliers to align with regional preferences, alongside "" concepts featuring exclusive boutiques for specialized retail within the main floor space. Fixed was a pioneering feature introduced by , contrasting with the prevalent haggling culture and promoting transparent experiences. In select locations, stores integrate with Sanborns operations, embedding concepts to enhance the combined retail and dining environment. Modern features emphasize customer comfort, with air-conditioned interiors providing a controlled atmosphere, particularly in upscale formats that position as a premium destination. Many full-line stores feature modern, upscale designs with colorful displays and efficient layouts, following ongoing remodels as of 2025.

Product lines and services

Sears México maintains a diverse array of product lines centered on everyday essentials, including for men, women, and children, furnishings such as furniture and , like audio devices and laptops, tools and hardware, and major appliances including refrigerators and washing machines. These offerings emphasize affordable, durable designed to appeal to middle-class Mexican consumers, with a focus on practical items that balance quality and value. To support customer convenience, Sears México provides key ancillary services, including the Sears Card, a co-branded option issued in partnership with that enables flexible payment plans and rewards on purchases without an annual fee. Delivery services cover nationwide shipping via the company's own or partnered couriers, often including installation for large appliances, while extended warranty plans offer beyond standard manufacturer coverage, with repairs handled through authorized service centers. Additionally, integrated auto departments under Sears Auto deliver maintenance services such as vehicle verification, oil changes, and tire installations. Local adaptations are evident in Sears México's , where the retailer has established partnerships with Mexican manufacturers to source textiles, apparel, and other goods, reducing reliance on imports and aligning with national production capabilities; for instance, much of its merchandise originates from domestic suppliers. International brands complement this approach, with appliances featuring models from , , and Mexican-made MABE products to meet varied consumer preferences. Complementing its physical stores, Sears México's platform allows online purchasing of the full product range with options for in-store pickup, facilitating seamless integration between digital and brick-and-mortar shopping while prioritizing the latter as the core retail model, with enhancements for experiences as of 2025.

Locations

Geographic distribution

Sears Mexico's expansion began with its inaugural store in in 1947, establishing a foundational presence in the capital that served as the hub for subsequent growth. By 1953, the retailer had opened seven stores, primarily concentrated in urban centers near the capital, reflecting an early strategy focused on densely populated areas to build . During the , expansion moderated amid economic challenges, but by 1981, Sears operated 43 locations across the country, marking a shift toward broader national coverage that solidified its footprint beyond the central region by the . The primary concentration of Sears stores remains in the Mexico City metropolitan area, where multiple outlets are embedded in prominent shopping centers and commercial districts, such as those in the Roma and neighborhoods, as well as surrounding suburbs in the like Ciudad Satélite and Las Margaritas. This dense clustering underscores the retailer's enduring emphasis on the capital's high-traffic zones, which continue to account for a significant portion of its operational base. In the northern regions, Sears maintains a notable focus, particularly in Baja California Norte, bolstered by the 2009 integration of the Dorian's chain, which added stores in key border cities like Tijuana and Ensenada. This acquisition by enhanced the northern portfolio, converting former Dorian's sites to the Sears format and extending reach into high-cross-border commerce areas. Presence extends to other border states, including with outlets in and , supporting trade-oriented markets along the U.S. frontier. Nationwide coverage encompasses diverse regions, with stores strategically placed in urban and suburban settings across central, southern, and western Mexico. In central areas, such as Guanajuato state, locations in cities like León and Irapuato cater to growing industrial hubs. Southern expansion includes placements in Veracruz with multiple sites in ports like Veracruz city and Coatzacoalcos, as well as in Yucatán's Mérida and Quintana Roo's Cancún and Playa del Carmen, targeting tourism-driven economies. Western regions feature stores in Jalisco's Guadalajara and Zapopan, alongside Michoacán's Morelia, ensuring accessibility in manufacturing and agricultural centers. This distributed model reflects a balanced approach to serving varied demographic and economic landscapes throughout the country.

Store count and recent changes

Sears Mexico, operated by Sears Operadora México, S.A. de C.V. under , operated approximately 92 stores nationwide as of 2022, reaching 96 by the end of 2023. This reflected steady growth in the chain's physical footprint during the early , supported by remodeling efforts and new openings in key urban areas, though historical peaks reached 98 stores as of 2018. As of the end of 2024, the store count stood at 95 locations, marking a reduction of one store from the previous year, as reported in Grupo Carso's operational data. In 2025, Sears Mexico continued to face pressures, with announcements of store closures contributing to further reductions as part of Grupo Sanborns' broader restructuring efforts. A notable example includes the closure of the Plaza Fiesta San Agustín location in San Pedro, Nuevo León, effective January 1, 2025, with additional closures occurring throughout the year. These changes stem from operational hurdles, including shifting consumer behaviors toward e-commerce, post-COVID market adaptations, and intensified competition, resulting in a total of approximately 93 stores as of late 2025. Looking ahead, Sears Mexico maintains a stable yet challenged presence in the retail sector, with expectations for continued strategic adjustments to ensure long-term . The chain's concentration in major metropolitan areas has influenced these count fluctuations, allowing for targeted .

References

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