The Gadget Shop (stylised gadgetshop) was a national British high-street chain of stores, predominantly selling gadgets, toys and lighting products, founded by Jonathan Elvidge in 1991.[1] At its height, it was one of the leading UK novelty gadget retailers. The chain went into administration in 2005, and subsequently closed. Its assets have previously been owned by The Entertainer, and are currently owned by WHSmith.[2]
History
Jonathan Elvidge founded the chain in 1991. The ideology behind the chain was that its target market would be a retail experience for teenagers and young adults, offering the sale of DVD players, audio and computer equipment, alongside novelty toys.[3]
At its height, it had 45 branches across the UK, and employed around 700 people.[4]