Stores.com revives Hammacher Schlemmer, the iconic 178-year-old retailer

Stores.com has bought Hammacher Schlemmer, the 178-year-old retailer once famous for its groundbreaking gadgets and luxury goods. The acquisition aims to revive a brand that lost its shine in recent decades. Matt Rutledge, CEO of Stores.com and former head of Woot.com, is leading the effort to bring back its former glory.

The relaunched Hammacher Schlemmer is now online at hammacher.com, with more updates on the way.

Hammacher Schlemmer was once a household name in innovation. From the 1930s to the 1980s, it introduced products like the pop-up toaster, microwave oven, and electric blender to American homes. Known for its high-end gadgets and top-tier customer service, the brand built a loyal following.

But over time, its reputation faded. Online competition, slow deliveries, and outdated systems hurt the customer experience. Reviews on Trustpilot averaged just 2.5 out of 5, and sales dropped by 40% since 2000. Many saw it as an outdated relic rather than a pioneer. Rutledge, who previously sold Woot.com to Amazon, now wants to turn things around. Instead of chasing discounts, the new Hammacher Schlemmer will focus on rediscovering the wonder and discovery that made it special. The brand will also keep its famous Lifetime Guarantee of Satisfaction, a policy that once set it apart.

The revived Hammacher Schlemmer is already live, with plans for further changes ahead. The goal is to restore its image as a destination for unique, high-quality products. Whether this strategy will bring back its former success remains to be seen.