Sears launches dorm-décor “Campus Ready” digital program for the college-bound

-- Home Textiles Today, 7/30/2009 1:20:00 PM

Hoffman Estates, Ill. – In time for the back-to-campus season hitting retail now, Sears is launching a "Campus Ready" digital program aimed at helping college-bound students decorate their dorm rooms.

Sears said that its Campus Ready platform leverages its online capabilities through three integrated tools, all available on Facebook: Campus Gift Getter, Roommate Matchup, and the Dorm Room Designer. All of the tools are available at http://www.facebook.com/campusready or www.sears.com/campus.

Don Hamblen, chief marketing officer, explained that the program allows Sears to “connect directly” with students as they plan to go off to college.

“We began by developing the Campus Gift Getter and transitioned into our Roommate Matchup and Dorm Room Designer applications,” he continued. “These applications allow students to get to know their new roommates and furnish their dorm room with their collective style in an affordable manner. The combination of these tools will help to prepare students as they enter the next stage of their life.”

Sears' Campus Gift Getter is set up similarly to the retailer’s bridal and baby registry in that graduates can log on to Facebook to register and select their wish list, whether for dormitory or day-to-day living. Once registered, their family members and friends can access the registry online, review the wish list and make purchases.

Users have the option to purchase individual items from the registry or contribute to a larger ticket item via "GiveTogether" -- Sears' new group gift-giving concept.

Sears celebrity spokesman Ty Pennington will provide tips using three-dimensional designs.