LOS ANGELES (CBS) — For the first time since its founding in 1886, Sears is opening its doors to eager shoppers on Thanksgiving.

“Our decision to stay open on Thanksgiving was based on our customers’ response and desire to have an extra day to shop,” David Friedman, president of marketing of Sears Holdings, said.

“We are always listening to our customers to make their shopping experience easier and now, by being open on Thanksgiving, they can start their shopping early or pick up last-minute items needed for their Thanksgiving celebration,” Friedman said.

However, a Facebook community was established in response, urging people to “do whatever it takes to let Sears know that Thanksgiving is a special time for families to be together remembering all of their blessings, not clipping coupons and dozing in 4 a.m. mall lines.”

In an attempt to balance its commitment to meeting customer needs with its commitment to its employees, Sears decided to be open for limited hours on Thanksgiving, 7 a.m. to noon, and where practical, fill the schedules with employees who volunteered to work that day and seasonal associates, Friedman said.

Toys “R” Us is also opening for the first time on Thanksgiving. Its stores will open at 10 p.m. in an attempt to attract early Black Friday shoppers.

Kmart will continue its policy of being open on Thanksgiving, with stores open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. The vast majority of Walmart stores will also be open all day.

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