Sears to offer Auto Care Franchises

[XDCX]

News reports indicate that Sears will expand their operations by offering Auto Care Franchises and they'll initially target dealerships which were closed as part of the GM and Chrysler down-sizings. For the full report - click here

To me it sounds like the idea has merit for a dealer who wants to retain his/her Service and Parts operation and still have some "branding" like a dealership with an automotive franchise. I have no idea what the fees are or whether Sears will allow a dealer to retain a used car operation at the same location?

The other reason I thought this news report was interesting is it answers my question on why I had IP Addresses from Sears reading the forum. On a number of occasions there were people from Sears who were reading the threads on AutoStar and Ken Zangara - now I know why....

[SHACOS]

I think this means the forum can take credit for the Sears idea.

It is a good idea though. I think Sears needs to spend some time working on brand image (I think appliances when I think Sears) however.

[XDCX]

Originally Posted by SHACOS

I think this means the forum can take credit for the Sears idea.

I don't think I'd go that far...

In fact, when I first noticed that someone from Sears was surfing the site I figured Zangara had a relative who worked in Chicago. Shows you how great of a detective I am....

Originally Posted by SHACOS

It is a good idea though. I think Sears needs to spend some time working on brand image (I think appliances when I think Sears) however.

It will be interesting to see if Sears can get their act together. From an investing standpoint many hearts have been broken on theory that Sears was undervalued. At one point it was suggested that Sears was a value-play based on the real estate they owned - then the bubble burst.

Concerning their Auto Care franchise, it will be interesting to see how they do. Their DieHard batteries have a good reputation and a former dealership service department could probably make some decent money performing the light mechanical work that people typically associate with a Sears Auto Care center. Time will tell.

[dodgequality]

Our Sears Auto Center is tires and batteries only after some investigations by the County Consumer Affairs Department.

[XDCX]

Originally Posted by dodgequality

Our Sears Auto Center is tires and batteries only after some investigations by the County Consumer Affairs Department.

I had forgotten about that....

I seem to recall that Sears was the subject of some controversy regarding the necessity of repairs they were recommending. I wonder if they're limited to just tires and batteries at all their locations?