NATION

Joseph H. Batogowski, senior executive vice president-merchandising for Sears Merchandise Group, announced that he has decided to leave the company to pursue outside business interests.

Matthew A. Howard, currently vice president-home appliances and home entertainment, will succeed Batogowski, effective April 1. Howard has been responsible for product development, buying, marketing and advertising for Kenmore appliances as well as home entertainment and electronic product lines.

On Wednesday, Chicago-based Sears, Roebuck & Co., which has been struggling to revitalize its merchandising arm, announced that it was buying Western Auto Supply Co., an independent home and auto merchandise chain.

Sears Spokesman Ernest L. Arms said that the move was related to a restructuring that could continue for as long as two years.