Sears opened the first of two specialty stores.

The Chicago-based retailer unveiled the first test store of one of two previously announced specialty store formats targeted at towns and cities of 10,000 to 100,000. The test store in Alma, Mich., carries hardware, paint, appliances, electronics and a catalogue operation in 8,300 square feet of selling space. Three more such stores are planned this year. The second planned specialty format, which will emphasize apparel and home fashion, will be introduced this summer.