Santa Marians mourn the permanent closure of Sears
SANTA MARIA, Calif. - Sunday was the last day that Santa Marianas will be able to shop at Sears in the Town Center Mall.
They are closing their doors after 44 years. Sears has been a staple in the community since 1975.
Many residents are sad to see them go. Santa Maria's location is one of 51 Sears' that are closing nationwide.
“It's just sad, it's sad to see people losing their jobs. I mean, and an empty store! It is just really depressing,” said Santa Maria resident Dallas Pietak.
The store has nostalgic memories for many.
“I grew up with Sears. Sears was where you went to get your tools, your fridge,” said Santa Maria resident Heather Haynes.
“I also remember going there as a kid with my grandparents which was really fun,” said Santa Maria resident Bryan Gaxiola.
Transformco Corporation which owns Sears and Kmart will be closing an additional 45 Kmart locations as well.
“I'm pretty sad that they are closing, but you can't miss out on these deals,” said Haynes.
Deals like 95% off signs are everywhere telling customers everything must go!
“It's really unfortunate, I know a lot of people are losing their jobs,” said Gaxiola.
Sears' job losses prompted the city to hold a job fair for departing employees. Thought the losses were high, they said not to worry. Santa Maria's unemployment rate has been at a steady decline over the last three years.
“It has to do with the internet. They are closing down because now there are big stores online where you can get whatever you want on there,” said Haynes.
The city of Santa Maria released a statement to KCOY saying:
“Overall Santa Maria’s economy is strong, even with Sear's closure. The new Hampton Inn at North Broadway has created more jobs. Car dealerships Toyota and Kia will be opening up soon. And Coast Hills Credit Union opened a new corporate branch here in January.”
Though Sears will be missed, some residents say it's time for a change.
“It's time for something new. It's 2020. We need a refresh, we need new jobs and new things for the younger generation,” said Gaxiola.
