Now that the holidays are over, retail analysts and the media are saying that sales were low. I personally haven't seen any reports yet, but Greg Bean shares some stats in his article, Customer Service: A Truly Radical Approach To Sales.

Greg shares his shopping experience in Sears (NASDAQ: SHLD) this past holiday season - an experience that may even rival a Nordstrom experience. Salespeople everywhere ready and willing to help... Carrying his purchase to the car... Every customer getting personalized service... The type of service that is unheard of in 99% of department stores.

Many retail establishments are cutting costs by laying off personnel because of the economic slowdown, but Sears proved that ramping up its sales staff and offering extraordinary service can actually weather any economic climate. If you're a Sears customer, you may also be excited to learn that the company is now offering year-round layaway.

I personally haven't been in a Sears for a long, long time, but Greg's story has aroused my curiosity. I just might have to drop by my local Sears and see for myself if things have changed!