In a major step towards mass adoption, one of the oldest names in retail has adopted cryptocurrency payments. Sears Roebuck & Company has announced the integration of Bitcoin payments to their 223 US stores, potentially introducing digital currencies to their hundreds of remaining customers.

“Sears has always been at the forefront of the latest technological innovations,” said Sears Holdings CEO Eddie Lampert, in a statement. “By integrating fast, low-fee digital payments on the blockchain, we’re making it even easier for our customers to acquire home repair supplies and automotive tools, both online and in person. “

It’s a big step for one of the oldest department stores in the U.S., which pioneered the use of mail-delivery catalogs in 1906. However, the company has struggled to remain relevant in the face of competition from online retailers like Amazon.

But integrating Bitcoin payments has not been without some friction. “We have heard some concerns about the technology being hard to use,” Lampert admitted. “In order to keep things running smoothly, we’ve started advanced training for all sales staff in how to use cold storage, and in proper use of a public key. “

Upon checkout, each customer will be presented with a choice of payment methods, including cash, credit, debit, or Bitcoin. In addition, they may also make smaller payments via the Lightning Network.

“Lightning payments will totally change the game for retail,” Lampert enthused. “Our sales associates are ready to show customers how to set up their Lightning wallet and make instant, nearly feeless payments through the second-layer solution. As soon as they fund a payments channel, that is.”

Each Sears store will also host its own Lightning node, thereby providing extra liquidity to the payments network and providing extra revenue of several hundred satoshis  per month.

The company expects the latest adoption to give Sears a major competitive edge, but it may not last long. Last week, J.C. Penny announced the adoption of Bitcoin Cash, beginning on April 1st.

The author is investeed in Bitcoin, which is mentioned in this article. 

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