From a small outlet at the bottom end of Steele Street, Devonport, A I Electronics & Hobbies commenced trading in 1986. A business partnership, those early days included a strong presence in remote control off-road vehicles. A well organised R/C club supplemented the growth of the business.
An opportunity arose to invest in electronic components, at a time when interest in that area was high, and the construction of electronics kits was very popular. Hobbyists continued to be catered to but the focus of the shop turned strongly to the now popular home electronics area.
Outgrowing its initial premises, A I Electronics & Hobbies made a move to the Fourways Shopping Centre, a satellite shopping centre away from the main town centre.
Over time, the store grew to its present size and caters to the popular areas of electronic components, citizens' band radio communication and home electronics including telephone communication, computers, security, along with toys which still include remote control cars.
The year 2004 saw the commencement of Leading Edge Electronics, an arm of the Leading Edge Group. A I Electronics & Hobbies was a founding member of this group of privately owned and operated electronics stores.
The group started with less that thirty members and has grown over time to exceed 100 members and agencies across Australia.
With strong trading, after its first year of membership, A I Electronics & Hobbies received two purchases awards at the group's first full Christmas Conference in 2005. Highest Central Billing purchases and Highest Jaycar Electronics purchases were a testament to the dedication and hard work put in by the staff to ensure the growth and future of the business.
A I Electronics & Hobbies is supported on the North West Coast of Tasmania by its trading neighbour, Electronics Plus at Burnie. At the above mentioned conference, both stores were number one and two for Jaycar Electronics, showing a keen interest in the area for electronics.
Having now been a member for five years, we continue to foster the growth of Leading Edge Electronics. A stronger group enables better buying and product range for our customers and everyone benefits.
A I Electronics & Hobbies is thankful to its customers for helping it to grow and service the requirements of the community, and committed to maintaining a high level of service.