RadioShack Extends CE Exchange Program To Stores

By Alan Wolf -- TWICE, 4/15/2009

Fort Worth, Texas — RadioShack has expanded its online electronics trade-in program to all of its 4,400 company-owned stores.

Under the program, consumers can bring their MP3 players, wireless phones, gaming systems and games, GPS receivers, digital cameras and digital camcorders to a RadioShack location for appraisal, and exchange the device for the ascertained value in company gift cards. The gift card can be redeemed immediately at the store.

The move is seen as an effort to boost sales of new products and to tap into the popular video game trade-in market, a model that was successfully developed by GameStop.

Products must be in working condition and able to “power on” during the appraisal process. Additional appraisal value can sometimes be offered for trading in devices with their AC charger, cables, manuals and other accessories.

Customers must be the owners of the devices and provide their names and addresses along with a valid driver’s license, state ID card, military ID or passport to qualify for a gift card exchange.

“Customer response to our online trade-in program has been excellent,” said Peter Whitsett, RadioShack’s executive VP and chief merchandising officer. “Expanding the program to our stores will make it easier for customers to gain access to new, innovative products while realizing value for their used or obsolete devices. Not only is this a win for our customers, but by keeping these used electronics out of landfills, it is a real benefit for our environment.”

RadioShack’s original online trade-in program additionally accepts car audio head units, notebook computers, HDTVs and computer monitors.