Classic Stereo Returns to Grand Rapids, Joins Bekins Family

Well known West Michigan audio and video retail brand will see new life under local appliance and electronics company Bekins

September 1st, 2015, Grand Rapids, Michigan - Classic Stereo and Video is returning to Grand Rapids in August under new ownership. Under the simplified name “Classic Stereo”, the A/V retailer will continue to offer high end audio and video equipment, specializing in customer service, design and integration. John Higgs and Bill Price, members of the former store’s management, have joined the new Classic Stereo sales team.

Scott Bekins, the owner of an independent, Grand Haven-based appliance and electronics retail chain, began eyeing the Classic Stereo name when Bekins hit a growth spurt in 2012 after the addition of its Grand Rapids store location.

“We’re already A/V experts, so relaunching Classic Stereo as an extension of Bekins makes a world of sense,” Bekins commented. “The market demand for high end A/V is strong in West Michigan; we know, because our team is growing to keep up with it. Bekins has been ranked Michigan’s #1 electronics integrator by CEPro for the last four years running, and we have more CEDIA certified installers than anyone else in the state. We’re excited to leverage our team’s talent, experience and vendor relationships to bring Classic Stereo back to its former glory.”

During its 26 years in business, the award-winning A/V electronics retailer was well known in West Michigan for its high end audio equipment, industry expertise, and custom design and integration. Classic Stereo and Video closed its store locations in Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids in 2008 due to recession-related market shifts.

Under its partnership with Bekins, Classic Stereo will carry equipment from manufacturers including Mark Levinson, Classe, Thorens, Marantz, Bowers & Wilkins, McIntosh, Peachtree and others. Hands-on service will be available at the in-store Sound Desk, where customers can get help building hi-resolution music libraries on their computers and devices.

“It's exciting to see the brand come alive again,” said John Higgs, “and I get to do what I love - working again with our favorite vendors and customers.”

The new Classic Stereo will be located next to Bekins’ Grand Rapids showroom at 6275 28th Street SE. The store is slated to open at the end October 2015. Those interested can learn more at classicstereo.us.

About the Company

Celebrating 40 years in business, Bekins is West Michigan's largest independent appliance and electronics retailer. A family owned and operated business since 1975, Bekins consistently offers customers the best products, and the best value. Learn more about Bekins’ CEDIA certified team, product brands and more at bekins.us, or classicstereo.us.