Is RadioShack back? Brand attempts return to relevance with consumer products
Jan 08, 2025
BestReviews is reader-supported and may earn an affiliate commission. Details.
LAS VEGAS — In the 20th century, it seemed like every town had a RadioShack. The 21st century hasn’t been as kind to the classic brick-and-mortar electronics retailer.
In 2015, the company was forced into bankruptcy and had to sell off its assets and brand for parts. Eventually, RadioShack was acquired by the Unicomer Group, based in El Salvador and one of the largest franchisees of the brand throughout Central America.
Now, under the new leadership, RadioShack is attempting to rebuild its reputation by selling consumer electronics. The company had a soft launch last August and took out space at CES in Las Vegas to let the world know that RadioShack isn’t just a remnant of the past — it will also play a role in the future.
Since reemerging, mostly selling on Amazon and Walmart, RadioShack is finding some success with Bluetooth speakers, which have been their biggest sellers so far. They also have the batteries, cables and components they were once known for. In the future, the company plans to expand with more toy options and become a place for hot gifts, such as the turntables they’re currently selling.
RadioShack doesn’t intend to take on the highest-end segment of the market. “We’re not looking to compete against Sony or JBL,” a rep told me. But they don’t see their products as budget-level either and view themselves as solidly middle class.
The goal is to develop more products and, ultimately, win back trust with the American consumer as a place shoppers can rely on for solid performance.
At BestReviews, we’re eager to test their products to let you know how they stack up with others around the same price point, especially in speakers.
Up next? We’ll be on the lookout to see if Blockbuster can get serious in the streaming world.
More CES Coverage:
Smart bird feeders shine at CES: A top gift that’s just getting started
Projector makers aim to create affordable models that minimize footprint, maximize performance
Pizza ovens are getting smarter — and CES shows there will soon be a model for everyone
Jacob Palmer is the Senior Director of Content Operations for BestReviews. He has covered CES for the company for several years and is an expert at finding products that will make the consumer’s heart sing.