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A Hobby Radio Communications Store for Wichita Falls
Radio Shack left town a few years ago. If it were the old 1970s and 80s Radio Shack I would be sad. But it wasn't. It was, in my opinion, the Radio Shack that lost its way and tried to compete with Best Buy and similar consumer electronics stores. If Radio Shack had stuck to its roots, there would have been no need to compete. They were in a league of their own but didn't seem to know it. At its peak, Radio Shack had over 8,000 stores. Ham Radio Outlet has 12 locations. They know who they are, and they stay in their lane.
Fast forward to 2024 and Wichita Falls could use a Hobby Radio Communications store. When I say Hobby Radio, I'm talking about CB Radio, Amateur (ham) Radio, the General Mobile Radio Service, the Multi-Use Radio Service, and all things directly related to those services. This includes a vast selection of parts and components. The store would sell and service radio gear from the services mentioned above. Regular swapfests would be conducted in the parking area.
Separate, fully-equipped, radio operator stations would be set up for CB Radio and Amateur (ham) Radio. Of course, a license would be required to operate Amateur Radio gear. But, do not despair! Regular Amateur (ham) Radio license classes will be conducted and testing will be available monthly. All employees will hold "Amateur Extra" licenses. Our customers come in to talk radio, not cell phones or home theater equipment!
As for a location, I don't think Sikes Senter Mall would work. I think a small building with a dedicated parking lot would be required. Easy access to vehicles would be needed to assist and/or advise customers with mobile installations. Also, we probably wouldn't want mall input on our swapfests or permanent antenna requirements. The security of the mall is nice, as is the foot traffic. I wouldn't rule it out completely without further investigation. The mall might be very accomodating as it seeks tenants. You never know until you ask.
These are the broad strokes. I'm sure you could add a lot of other good ideas.
WF5TX