Sears Holdings likely to stay in Chicago area

COLUMBUS — Sears Holdings almost certainly will keep its headquarters and 6,200-person staff in Illinois despite a months-long flirtation with central Ohio, the company and local officials indicated Thursday.

The parent company of Sears and Kmart stores committed to remaining in the Chicago area provided that Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn signs legislation granting it a share in $100 million worth of incentives.

Ohio Gov. John Kasich had long acknowledged that Sears most likely would remain in Illinois, despite a competitive incentive offer from Ohio and discussions with other states.