1 What are the benefits of understanding the links between the variables mentioned above? R.W. Sears Watch Company, founded in Minneapolis in 1886 by Richard Sears, has developed into one of the largest stores and mail-order businesses in the USA – Sears, Roebuck and Co. Although the company was one of the early pioneers of mail-order shopping, in 1925 it branched out into retail stores. By 1997 Sears operated 833 department stores and 1,325 furniture, hardware and car parts stores. In addition, Sears sells appliances, hardware and car parts through 1,384 independently owned stores.

Sears continues to provide home shopping and other home services. The company’s turnover in 1998 was over $41 billion.