Sears Realigns Its Catalog, Online Units

Sears, Roebuck & Co. said Jane Thompson, president of Sears Direct, its catalog and Internet sales business, is leaving as the nation’s No. 2 retailer combines several units. Sears tapped Thompson, 47, in June to head Sears Direct, after she served as president of the company’s home services unit. Sears will combine the specialty catalog operations with its marketing unit, while the online operations will become a part of the home services unit. At the same time, the Sears Auto Centers and NTB National Tire & Battery stores will become a part of the specialty store group. Sears shares fell 6 cents to close at $46.25cq on the NYSE. The announcement came after the close of trading.