RadioShack, the iconic American chain of consumer electronics stores, went bankrupt in 2017. But it was acquried by El Salvador’s Unicomer Group in May 2023 and it’s back at CES 2025.
RadioShack had been a beloved brand in the U.S. since 1921 and had more than 8,000 stores at its peak in 1999. Now its new owner is pledging a comeback and is showcasing 380 products at CES, the big tech trade show in Las Vegas this week.
RadioShack’s products cover gaming, audio, tech accessories, power and batteries, cables, home and office solutions and travel essentials. Unicomer Group, which was once one of RadioShack’s largest and most successful franchisees, is now the custodian of the company with a proud history. And it has a strategic vision for the future, the brand is reconnecting with its roots while embracing modern technology to meet the needs of today’s consumers.
Asked why the company acquired the brand, Rudy Siman, president of RadioShack, said in a message to GamesBeat, “We acquired the brand because, after managing its operations for more than eight years across Latin America and the Caribbean, we now have a solid model and volume base to build upon. Additionally, we have a capable team that is doing things right. Therefore, expanding our business volume into new territories—especially one as important as the United States—makes complete sense for us.”
As for the core advantage the company can offer, Siman said, “Our value proposition is centered on delivering high-quality products across a wide range of categories at affordable prices. We’ve relaunched the brand in the market, providing customers with multiple product options under a trusted, quality brand. We are making these products available to consumers through various channels.”
He said that in this initial phase, the company will operate stores through a third-party model. RadioShack aims to partner with resellers and companies interested in operating the stores, he said.
As an old timer, I fondly remember the Tandy TRS-80 computer, sold in RadioShack stores. It was the first computer I used as a journalist while on the road. I had to use these acoustic couplers that attached the computer to a telephone, and it made these weird noises as it connected to the newsroom so I could file stories.
At CES, RadioShack will present a selection of its core and most innovative products, designed to meet the needs of modern lifestyles. Highlights include gaming equipment, audio technology such as speakers, headsets and vintage-inspired audio, tech accessories, travel gear, health and fitness products, power solutions, and other essential gadgets for everyday use.
“RadioShack has always been a pioneer in the tech space, and our return to CES marks an exciting chapter in our journey,” said Simon. “We are thrilled to share our latest innovations and reconnect with our customers who trust us to provide high-quality, accessible technology.”
As part of its re-emergence, RadioShack is committed to making technology affordable and accessible to all. Currently, the brand boasts over 500 product offerings across 17 different categories and is developing a portfolio of over 1,000 RadioShack products for the US market.
Having sold more than two million units annually across multiple markets and with plans to double its offerings by the end of 2025, the brand affirms its trusted reputation in the tech industry.
The company has a booth at the Las Vegas Convention Center during CES at South Hall 1, Booth 31118, and it’s looking for resellers.
RadioShack filed for its first bankruptcy in 2015, when it still had 4,300 stores. It filed again in 2017.
Unicomer Group acquired the RadioShack franchise in El Salvador in January 1998, expanding the business in over 25 countries throughout Central America, South America and the Caribbean. This successful acquisition allowed RadioShack to continue its legacy as the go-to destination for consumer
tech needs in every country it operates.
Now, Unicomer Group continues to expand RadioShack’s global footprint and has acquired RadioShack’s intellectual property assets and domains in more than 70 countries including the United States, ushering in a domestic return for the legacy brand.
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