Sears says portrait studio operator shuts down at U.S. stores

Sears Holdings Corp. said CPI Corp., the company that operated photo portrait studios at the retailer’s stores, is ceasing U.S. operations.

“We are working with CPI to ensure that it fulfills its outstanding orders and provides ordered pictures to our members and customers,” Howard Riefs, a spokesman for Hoffman Estates-based Sears, said in an e-mail today. CPI operated the studio under license, he said.

Sears is “exploring all options” to continue photo services, Riefs said. Customers who have had recent picture sessions can order portraits on the Sears website through April 18, according to a statement on the retailer’s website.

CPI, based in St. Louis, said on its website that “after many years of providing family portrait photography, we are sad to announce that all of our U.S. portrait studios are now closed.” The company’s website said it offered photo services in about 3,100 North American locations, mainly at stores of Sears and Wal-Mart Stores Inc.

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