Best Buy, which is due to open its first UK stores this spring, has trademarked Rumbelows under the Best Buy UK property. Sources say Best Buy may seek to tap into consumer nostalgia associated with the name to build its own brand.
First used in the 60s, the Rumbelows brand was hit by financial difficulties in the 90s and its stores were sold off.
Rumbelows' marketing included the ‘Don't pay any more Mrs Moore' TV ads, which featured animated household appliances such as washing machines and stereos. Between 1990 and 1992, it was the title sponsor of the English Football League Cup, which is now supported by Carling.
Best Buy hopes to create up to 8000 jobs in the UK over a five-year period. While it plans to open bigger stores under the Best Buy brand name, it is possible that Rumbelows could be used for smaller outlets.
The US chain entered the UK market after purchasing a 50% stake in Carphone Warehouse. A spokesman said the electronics company had carried out ‘research' into the Rumbelows name but had no intention of using the brand.
Rumbelows timeline
1950s Fred Dawes builds up a chain of eponymous TV and radio rental stores.
1969 Chain sold to Radio Rentals owner Thorn Electrical Industries. The stores are converted from rental to retail and rebranded as Rumbelows.
1995 Thorn sells off Rumbelows stores to German PC retailer Escom.
1996 Escom ceases trading following financial difficulties.
2010 Best Buy mulls bringing Rumbelows back to UK high-streets.
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