SEARS BEGINS ANNIVERSARY PROMOTION
By Adnews Staff
Sears Canada began the first in a year-long series of promotions to mark its 50th anniversary over the weekend. The Toronto-based retailer introduced a contest called "Thank You Canada" in all its stores in this country yesterday. Entrants can win prizes including a $50,000 shopping spree at Sears, a $50,000 Whole Home merchandise package or one of three travel packages from Sears Travel. The contest will run until Feb. 15. Sears associates have also begun distributing 50th anniversary pins shaped like a maple leaf to customers. On certain dates between now and Feb. 15, "Sears Spotters" in major markets will give away Sears gift cards to customers seen wearing the pins. Advertising support for the anniversary effort includes television, radio and print executions along with in-store signage, all created in-house. Sears Canada consists of 123 department stores, 42 furniture and appliance stores, approximately 2,220 catalogue merchandise pick-up locations, 141 dealer stores, 15 outlet stores, 50 floor covering centres, 52 auto centres, 110 Sears Travel offices and a national maintenance, repair and installation establishment.