Sears Department Store in Stockton to Close Next Month

STOCKTON — The iconic Sears department store located in Weberstown Mall is set to close its doors next month, marking the end of an era for the community. Once a retail giant with numerous locations across the U.S., Sears now operates only 12 stores nationwide. Local historians emphasize the significant impact Sears had on Stockton's development, suggesting that the city’s growth trajectory would have been markedly different had the store not chosen to establish itself there. Phillip Merlo, a local resident, reminisced about the store's importance, stating, "Sears was the place to go if you needed to get anything." He noted that the store played a crucial role in the city's expansion during the 1950s, particularly in the northern areas of Stockton and San Joaquin County. This historical perspective highlights the store's influence on the community's evolution over the past six decades. Looking ahead, Carrier Wright, the director of economic development for Stockton, acknowledged the need for the city to adapt to changing economic conditions. She expressed optimism about the potential for new businesses to fill the void left by Sears, stating, "We can make it attractive for businesses in that area." While the future of the Sears location remains uncertain, the store's legacy as a community cornerstone is undeniable. Interestingly, Merlo revealed that the store's basement was originally designed as a bomb shelter during the Cold War, adding a unique historical layer to its significance in Stockton.