Fry's Electronics Closes Downers Grove Store, All Other Locations

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Fry's Electronics is calling it quits after almost 36 years in business. The California-based retailer announced Wednesday that it shuttered its nearly three dozen remaining stores, including the location at 3300 Finley Rd. in Downers Grove.

In a message on its website, Fry's Electronics attributed the sudden closure to "changes in the retail industry and the challenges posed by the [coronavirus] pandemic." The post called the decision to shut down operations a "difficult" one.

"It is hoped that undertaking the wind-down through this orderly process will reduce costs, avoid additional liabilities, minimize the impact on our customers, vendors, landlords and associates, and maximize the value of the Company’s assets for its creditors and other stakeholders," the website's post read.

Fry's Electronics is currently in the process of contacting consignment vendors and customers with repairs to hammer out what comes next.

Customers with items that are out for repair are asked to email customerservice@frys.com. Customers with items that need repair are encouraged to call 800-811-1745.

Fry's is asking its consignment vendors to email omnichannel@frys.com regarding picking up inventory at local stores.

Regarding the closure, Downers Grove Mayor Bob Barnett told Patch via email, "These are difficult times. Retail continues to see dramatic changes and the electronics world is no exception."

Barnett went on, "Downers Grove thanks the Fry’s organization for their time here and wishes the best for their employees, creditors and stakeholders alike. Unfortunately, businesses too, have life cycles and are often not permanent. Whether it is changes in the needs of owners or changes in the demands of the market, change itself is the one constant. The Village of Downers Grove has full confidence in our Economic Development Corporation team and looks forward to an opportunity to work together toward continued or renewed use of the Fry’s site for the benefit of our community."