PRESS RELEASE

Sears Introduces National Tire and Battery Stores

20 March 1997
Sears Introduces National Tire and Battery Stores

    HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., March 19 -- Sears, Roebuck and Co.
(NYSE: S) will begin consolidating Tire America (TA) and National Tire
Warehouse (NTW) stores into a new format called National Tire and Battery
(NTB) this May.  By August 1997, almost all 275 TA and NTW stores, located
primarily in the Midwestern, Atlantic and Southeastern states, are expected to
be converted to NTB.
    "This move allows Sears to offer customers a state-of-the-art tire and
battery store," said Paul Baffico, president of Sears Automotive Group.  "More
than just a change in the name, we're combining the best practices of both TA
and NTW, as well as some new tricks, to create a new shopping experience.
NTB's 'off-the-mall' format also allows it to expand rapidly into new markets
nationwide."  Sears plans to add 100 NTB stores per year with a goal of more
than 700 stores by year 2001.  Sears currently operates almost 800 Sears Auto
Centers next to its full-line stores.
    All stores will carry national brand name and private label tires,
including Goodyear, Michelin, Pirelli and Roadhandler and custom wheels.
Stores also will sell batteries and related starting and charging accessories,
including DieHard, the nation's most preferred battery.  NTB will also offer
related ride-control services including brakes, shocks, struts, alignments and
front-end repair.  Both TA and NTW currently carry these products and
services; however, NTW currently does not sell batteries.
    Sears Automotive Group is the nation's largest retailer of tires and
batteries through its Sears Auto Center, TA and NTW stores.  Under its Western
Auto division, Sears Automotive Group sells automotive parts, accessories and
related products at its Parts America and Western Auto retail stores.
Additionally, independently owned Western Auto Associate Stores serve rural
American customers with a diverse selection of automotive and home goods.

SOURCE  Sears, Roebuck and Co.
CONTACT: Bob McHenry of Sears Media Relations, 847-286-4682