Consumer electronics retailer prepared to meet customer demand for DTV converter boxes, redeem government-issued coupons and identify personal TV viewing solutions
February 14, 2008 // Franchising.com // FORT WORTH, Texas -- RadioShack Corporation (NYSE: RSH) announced it is ready to support the Digital Television (DTV) transition program in nearly 5,000 neighborhood stores including participating RadioShack Dealers starting next week. This includes making available two different models of DTV converter boxes along with antennas, splitters, switches, cable and other digital TV accessories to help keep analog televisions receive over-the-air broadcasts after the government-mandated analog-to-digital transition occurs Feb. 17, 2009.
"The DTV transition is one that involves a host of private-public entities who have been working hand-in-hand for months to ensure U.S. citizens will be able to receive digital TV broadcasts after Feb. 17, 2009," said Peter Whitsett, executive vice president, general merchandising manager for RadioShack Corporation. " We understand consumers often turn to the knowledgeable sales associates at their neighborhood RadioShack first to help them understand such technical issues and assist them in obtaining the best solutions for their individual needs. As such, we are uniquely positioned to offer customers the necessary products, accessories, information and personal consulting to help make the transition from analog to digital broadcasts as seamless as possible."
The National Telecommunications and Information Association (NTIA) is expected to begin distributing $40 coupons next week good toward the purchase of a certified DTV converter box for people who have requested them. For information on how to apply for up to two coupons per household, visit www.dtv2009.gov.
RadioShack is offering two different brands of Energy Star-compliant DTV converter boxes for a retail price of $59.99 each ($19.99 with the NTIA coupon plus applicable tax). RadioShack will also offer a range of optional accessories such as antennas, splitters, switchers and additional cables that may be needed to help over-the-air customers get the most out of their TV viewing experience. In addition, RadioShack today announced its decision to stop the sale of all analog televisions and related analog video devices on February 29, 2008.
Whitsett said customers have three basic choices when it comes to the DTV transition, including:
* Obtain a DTV converter box that will allow an analog television to receive digital signals
* Use an analog television with a cable or satellite subscription service provider. In most cases doing so will eliminate the need for a DTV converter box.
* Upgrade to a television with a built-in digital tuner.
He adds that other factors may come into play when deciding what kind of digital tuner or accessories are needed, including such things as the need to receive local channels or low powered television stations. A customer's local RadioShack store should be able to assist them in creating a personalized solution for their particular situation.
Starting next week, RadioShack stores will be equipped to redeem the $40 DTV converter box coupons in nearly 5,000 stores and select dealer locations. Customers may also purchase their converter boxes at RadioShack stores and have them sent directly to their home free of charge using RadioShack's Direct to You ordering system or, starting March 1, order them from RadioShack's dedicated phone number, 1-877-RS-DTV-4U. In addition to the converter boxes and digital accessories, RadioShack also offers other options to help customers make the digital transition, including various televisions and home entertainment devices with built-in digital tuners, Dish Network satellite service and subscriptions for local cable providers (offerings vary by market).
"Customer education is, and remains, the number one challenge to ensure we have a smooth transition next year," Whitsett said. " That's why RadioShack has devoted a tremendous amount of resources to training store employees and creating online and in-store materials to inform customers of the situation and make them aware of their choices. We're doing so in both English and Spanish to serve the needs of our diverse customer base. Bottom line, we want every customer who turns to RadioShack for their digital solution to leave satisfied with the products and personal service they experience."
For additional information regarding the DTV transition, visit www.RadioShack.com, www.dtv2009.gov or call 1-800-DTV-2009.
About RadioShack Corporation
RadioShack Corporation (NYSE: RSH) is one of the nation's most experienced and trusted consumer electronics specialty retailers. Operating from convenient and comfortable neighborhood and mall locations, RadioShack stores deliver personalized product and service solutions within a few short minutes of where most Americans either live or work. The company has a presence through almost 6,000 company-operated stores and dealer outlets in the United States, over 150 RadioShack locations in Mexico and nearly 800 wireless phone kiosks. RadioShack's dedicated force of knowledgeable and helpful sales associates has been consistently recognized by several independent groups as providing the best customer service in the consumer electronics and wireless industries. For more information on RadioShack Corporation, or to purchase items online, visit www.RadioShack.com.
###
