Part 8/11:
Radio Shack’s pivot to focus primarily on cell phone sales in the early 2000s initially appeared profitable, with the wireless sector accounting for nearly 50% of total sales. However, this success was precarious as manufacturers like Apple began to sell directly to consumers, cutting into Radio Shack's commissions and undermining its profitability.
The Inevitable Decline and Bankruptcy
By 2015, Radio Shack's struggles culminated in bankruptcy. After an unsuccessful attempt to revive the brand through partnerships and new strategies—such as selling phones and plans for major carriers—Radio Shack faced irreparable damage. The closing of most locations left the company with a mere 1,700 stores, now mostly co-branded with Sprint and only selling mobile products.