Sears adds depth to newest hardware stores. (Sears Hardware)

The management of Sears, Roebuck and Co are planning to open new concept stores called Sears Hardware. These stores are a take-off from the Sears Paint and Hardware Stores which first opened in 1983. The new concept stores aim to attract single family consumers located in shopping districts or strip mall locations. The stores will be concentrated first in the eastern Mississippi area where large metropolitan markets are present.

While many independent d-i-y retailers have focused attention on the warehouse competitors' big boxes, another industry giant may be looking to move next