Dowagiac’s Sears store on M-51 South has been named a 2011 Sears Hometown Store Premier Dealer.

This award recognizes Sears Hometown Stores across the country that consistently offer the greatest customer service, outstanding store performance and standards, as well as exceptional demonstrations of local community involvement.

In April 2011, the Dowagiac store was one of only 372 locations throughout the U.S. to receive this national recognition.

“To be honored as a Premier Dealer is a great achievement not only for our store, but also for the community we strive to serve everyday,” said John Fox, owner and operator of the Sears Hometown Store in Dowagiac. “We could not have earned this without the support of our community, and we want to thank our customers for shopping with us throughout the year.”

Only 38 percent of Sears Hometown Stores receive this prestigious annual award, and this year, each store receiving Premier Dealer status will be given the opportunity to participate in an exclusive Premier Dealer event where customers can receive an additional 10 percent off discount.

“We are thrilled to designate John Fox and the Sears Hometown Store of Dowagiac a Premier Dealer, as a testament to the hard work and dedication shown each and every day to support the community,” said Will Powell, president, Sears Hometown Stores.

“We are committed to continually assisting Hometown Stores and their communities, so that customers everywhere can shop closer to home and enjoy the quality and value found at Sears.”

Sears Hometown Stores are a unique retailing concept; they combine the value, selection and services associated with larger retail stores but are owned and operated by a member of the local community.

Sears Hometown Stores provide exceptional customer service along with a wide assortment of appliances, tools, electronics, fitness equipment and lawn and garden merchandise.

In addition, Sears Hometown Store associates can order anything from the entire selection of merchandise offered by Sears Holdings, including apparel, footwear, jewelry and much more for the customer.

This unique format allows customers in small communities to have access to the products and brands usually found only in Sears stores.

To learn more about Sears Hometown Stores, visit www.searshometownstores.com.

Sears Hometown Stores (Nasdaq: SHLD) were developed 17 years ago to serve Sears customers in locations outside of major metropolitan cities.

There are currently more than 920 Hometown Stores throughout the United States and Puerto Rico.

Sears Hometown Stores, LLC, carry proprietary Sears’ brands, such as Craftsman, Kenmore and DieHard, as well as a wide assortment of national brands.