Sears January Comparable Sales Increase 2.6 Percent

Sears, Roebuck and Co. announced total domestic store revenues for the five weeks ending February 3, 2001 were $2.25 billion. Comparable domestic store revenues increased 2.6 percent. Total domestic store revenues increased 3.9 percent compared to $2.17 billion for the five weeks ending February 5, 2000.

"Overall, hardlines delivered strong gains with double-digit increases in several categories as consumers purchased appliances, electronics and sporting goods," said Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Alan J. Lacy. "Softlines performed below our expectations although certain softline categories, such as home fashions and jewelry, did well. Off the mall, dealer stores and The Great Indoors generated solid sales increases."

Sears, Roebuck and Co. is a leading U.S. retailer of apparel, home and automotive products and services, with annual revenue of more than $40 billion. The company serves families across the country through approximately 860 full-line department stores, approximately 2,100 specialized retail locations, and a variety of online offerings accessible through the company's Web site, http://www.sears.com/ . The company makes available by phone a recorded message on sales performance of its domestic stores. The message is updated weekly and can be heard by calling (847) 286-6111.

                                           Sears, Roebuck and Co.
                                       5 Weeks            53 Weeks*

  2001 Domestic Store Revenues      $2,254,000,000   $30,444,400,000
  2000 Domestic Store Revenues*      2,168,900,000    29,365,700,000
  Percent Change                              3.9%              3.7%
  Comparable Domestic
   Stores Percent Change                      2.6%              2.4%

*NRF Calendar for 2000 contained 53 weeks. We have restated prior year January revenues to include 5 weeks.

SOURCE: Sears, Roebuck and Co.

Contact: Peggy A. Palter of Sears, Roebuck and Co., 847-286-8361

Website: http://www.sears.com/