Latin America: Sears's Profitable Alianza

U.S.-based businessmen who carp about constantly working under the gun ought to get a look at Fred Eaton. On the roof above his modern office in Caracas, Venezuela, booted militiamen with submachine guns patrol 24 hours a day. They are watching for Communist terrorists who, in a perverse kind of compliment, have focused on Eaton's company as a prime example of Yanqui capitalism. It is Sears, Roebuck of Venezuela, and all of its 13 stores have been the targets of bombs or burning. Though nothing has happened lately, Eaton's workers each night before closing have to examine every drawer,...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!