HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015 01-15 Used tech retailer Device Pitstop expanding in Twin Cities PIONEER PRESS Used tech retailer Device Pitstop expanding in Twin Cities
Updated:Ol/12/2015 05:26:45 PM CST � TW I IlC ItIeS.COfTI
JAN 1 5 2015
Looking to unload that old phone,tablet,laptop or desktop computer?Three newly opened
Twin Cities stores pay for such unwanted hardware but will be choosy about what gear they
accept.
These outlets,all Device Pitstop franchises,are part of a Minnesota-based chain with 11
stores around the nation.Six more, including two in the Twin Cities,are set to open in the
nearfuture.
Device Pitstop is mostly focused on buying computer and mobile-device hardware with the
goal of reseliing it.
It emphasizes convenience,with cash on the spot,and will not necessarily match prices
quoted by such online gear-purchase services as Gazelle,said Chad Olson,who operates
the chain with his father Ron.
"We are obviously in the business to make money,"Olson noted."We might take some stuff
for parts,but we prefer it in working condition."
Device Pitstop also provides device-repair services,such as replacement of shattered phone
or tablet screens,with roughly 30 percent of its business devoted to such work.
The three new metro-area stores are at 13732 83rd Way,Maple Grove,2950 White Bear
Ave., Maplewood,and 1603 County Rd.42, Burnsville.The coming stores are in Edina and
Eden Prairie.
The Device Pitstop chain is property of Minnetonka-based NTY Franchise Co.,which
founded and still operates the first Device Pitstop location in Minnetonka.Chad Olson is
NTY's chief operating officer while his father is the organization's CEO.
NTY Franchise Company also oversees a number of other retail-franchise brands.One of
these, New Uses,buys and sells household appliances,furnishings and other items.Three
other brands--Clothes Mentor,NTY Clothing Exchange,and NTY Kids--apply the same
business model to apparel for various age groups.