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Stores.com revives Hammacher Schlemmer's 178-year legacy of quirky innovation

A childhood dream becomes reality as Matt Rutledge takes the helm of Hammacher Schlemmer. Can he bring back the magic of America's oldest quirky retailer? The brand that once introduced pop-up toasters now faces its biggest reinvention yet.

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The image shows a store with a vintage arcade machine in the middle of it. On the right side of the...
The image shows a store with a vintage arcade machine in the middle of it. On the right side of the image, there is a rack with glasses placed on it, and in the background there are cupboards, a television, and other objects. At the top of the ceiling, there are lights, giving the store a retro feel.

Stores.com revives Hammacher Schlemmer's 178-year legacy of quirky innovation

Stores.com has taken over Hammacher Schlemmer, the 178-year-old retailer known for quirky and innovative gadgets. The acquisition, led by CEO Matt Rutledge, aims to revive the brand's legacy as a pioneer in unique home products. Rutledge, who also founded Woot.com, has long admired Hammacher Schlemmer since his childhood.

Hammacher Schlemmer began in 1848 and once introduced groundbreaking inventions like the pop-up toaster and microwave oven to American households. For decades, it operated high-end stores in New York, catering to wealthy customers with exclusive gadgets. After being acquired by Jacobson Stores around 1999–2000, the brand shifted to online retail, broadening its audience but facing criticism over declining quality and customer service.

The new ownership under Stores.com plans to restore the brand's reputation for wonder and discovery. Rutledge has made it clear that Hammacher Schlemmer will not become a discount deal site like Woot.com, which Amazon acquired in 2012. Instead, the focus will remain on unique, high-quality products, including the revival of its famous Lifetime Guarantee of Satisfaction.

The updated Hammacher Schlemmer website is now live at hammacher.com, marking the start of its revival under Rutledge's leadership.

The acquisition brings Hammacher Schlemmer back to its roots as a destination for innovative and unusual products. With a renewed commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, the brand aims to reclaim its place in the market. The new direction will build on its long history while adapting to modern retail demands.

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