Wondering where you can find a family-owned business that started with just $800? That place is Abt Electronics in Glenview Illinois. Founded in 1936 by David and Jewel Abt, Abt Electronics began as a small radio store in Chicago’s Logan Square. Jewel provided the initial $800 loan.
Abt Electronics has grown into the largest single-store retailer of electronics, appliances, and home goods in the United States. The business is now run by the third generation of the Abt family. Mike, Ricky, Jon, and Billy Abt, the grandchildren of David and Jewel, share the title of co-president.
Abt’s Glenview location is impressive. It boasts a 114000-square-foot showroom on 70 acres. The entire complex, including the state-of-the-art warehouse, covers over 600000 square feet. Abt provides a unique shopping experience. It features stores-within-a-store like an Apple boutique and an Abt Candy Store.
Don’t miss the Las Vegas-inspired atrium. It has a dancing fountain with hourly light and water shows. Also, there is a 7500-gallon saltwater aquarium. It houses exotic fish, a moray eel, and colorful coral reefs. Be sure to check out the Samsung TV Windmill.
Abt is known for award-winning customer service. Over 1700 expertly trained staff guide shoppers. They help customers find the perfect products. Customer support is available seven days a week. You can reach them by phone, online chat, or email.
Abt.com launched in 1997. It was one of the first major retailers to offer products online. Abt provides free nationwide shipping on thousands of items. They also offer free technical support and a no-hassle return policy. Abt repairs all brands it carries.
Abt is committed to green initiatives. They have a 30000-square-foot recycling center on-site. The center processes over 14000 tons of waste annually. This includes 95% of the company’s own waste. Abt has recycled millions of pounds of electronics and appliances. A rooftop solar array helps power Abt Electronics. It reduces their carbon footprint. A rainwater harvesting system collects water for irrigation. Electric vehicle charging stations are also available.
Abt partners with the Glenview Park District. They make road and park improvements. This enhances access to the showroom and warehouse. It also adds parking at Community Park West.
Abt’s success comes from its customer service and unmatched shopping experience. The company has won many awards. These include the Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award and Consumer Reports’ #1 Appliance Dealer. Abt has also been named a Top Workplace by the Chicago Tribune multiple times.
So next time you need electronics, appliances, or home goods, remember Abt Electronics. It is a family-owned business with a long history of service and innovation. Their commitment to customers and the environment makes them a standout retailer.