Business opportunity: Sears seeks new local owner for Du Quoin store

The Du Quoin Sears store at 325 South Washington Street in Du Quoin is what's known as a Sears Hometown Outlet (SHO). It is locally owned and operated.

In recent years the store has been owned by Darlene Vichard, who has retired.

The way this works is that Darlene bought the local franchise from Sears and at her retirement she essentially sold the franchise back to Sears.

Manager Chris Moffitt is taking care of the store during the interim until Sears can identify a new local owner.

Moffitt commented that it has been a good business for Du Quoin and a great place to shop for appliances, tools, outdoor power equipment and bedding for the entire area. "It is a good business," he said--and profitable.

The Kenmore line of appliances is probably the most popular name in the industry.

Moffitt said if you want to make in an inquiry he can forward it on to the Sears Hometown Outlet Department or you can contact them yourself at 402-578-3821.

Even though the For Sale sign is in the front window, "we are not closing," said Moffitt.