ThinkGeek
| File:ThinkGeek logo 14-07-29.jpg | |
| Company type | Subsidiary |
|---|---|
| Industry | Retail |
| Founded | August 13, 1999 |
| Defunct | Template:End date and age |
| Headquarters | , United States |
| Parent | Geeknet (2000–2021) |
| Website | Template:Official |
ThinkGeek was a U.S.-based retail brand that catered to computer aficionados and enthusiasts of "geek culture". Frequently likened to a "Sharper Image tailored for sysadmins", its product lineup featured apparel, tech gadgets, computer accessories, office and pet toys, children's playthings, alongside niche caffeinated beverages and confectionery. Established in 1999 with headquarters in Fairfax, Virginia, the company was a part of Geeknet, itself a subsidiary of GameStop.
History
The inception of ThinkGeek dates back to 1999 in downtown McLean, Virginia, when Jen Frazier, Jon Sime, Scott Smith, and Willie Vadnais launched it as a side venture. The official website went live on August 13, 1999.[1] Shortly thereafter, Andover.net purchased ThinkGeek in October 1999; Andover.net was soon acquired by VA Linux (which later rebranded as Geeknet).[2]
In August 2000, the company shifted its base to Fairfax, Virginia. Staff numbers increased from six employees in 2004 to 83 by 2013. Revenue climbed from $50 million in 2009 to $118.9 million in 2012.[3][1] ThinkGeek secured the #175 position on the Internet Retailer Top 500 List in 2012.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
The firm’s mascot was a monkey named Timmy.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
On May 26, 2015, pop culture retailer Hot Topic proposed an acquisition bid for Geeknet and ThinkGeek at $17.50 per share (valued at $122 million); shortly after, an unnamed competitor offered $20 per share.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Subsequently, on June 2, 2015, video game retailer GameStop completed the purchase of Geeknet for $140 million.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name The transaction finalized on July 17, 2015.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
ThinkGeek inaugurated its initial brick-and-mortar store at The Florida Mall in Orlando on September 25, 2015.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name The following year saw growth with the opening of 25 additional U.S. outlets and another 25 international locations, focusing on an omnichannel retail approach that incorporated options like in-store pickup and ship-to-store services.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
In June 2019, ThinkGeek phased out its independent online storefront by merging its e-commerce operations into GameStop’s platform.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Subsequent product launches included officially licensed Bluetooth speakers themed after Jigglypuff and Rick and Morty.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
Between January and September 2021, several physical stores were closed across cities including Miami, San Antonio, Austin, El Paso, McAllen (Texas), and Tacoma (Washington).Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
Products
Following its acquisition by GameStop, ThinkGeek’s inventory primarily featured licensed merchandise from well-known franchises such as Star Wars, Star Trek, Firefly, Marvel Comics, Doctor Who, Minecraft, and The Big Bang Theory.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad nameCite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name The assortment also included iconic pop culture items like the Magic 8 Ball alongside science-themed gadgets such as the Schrödinger's Cat Executive Decision Maker.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
Prior to being acquired, ThinkGeek was recognized for offering distinctive products like Miracleberry tablets and sound-effect t-shirts ahead of wider market adoption.
The brand gained notoriety for its April Fool's Day pranks that showcased fictitious novelty items inspired by popular culture—examples include the "Banksy Toaster" and "Thor Mighty Mjolnir Mailbox." Some concepts such as "Canned Unicorn Meat" and the "Tauntaun" sleeping bag eventually became real offerings.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad nameCite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
ThinkGeek also managed a customer rewards program called "Geek Points," which incentivized repeat purchases.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name