Krazy Kelly’s was founded in 1971, when Geoffrey McKay purchased a small television shop on Dougall Ave in Windsor called “Thornhill’s”. Geoff’s brother, William “Bill” McKay, had already been operating a successful television store in Windsor called “McKay’s TV and Appliance” since 1954.
Geoffrey had worked for his brother for many years, starting at the bottom as a delivery man, then a service tech and then later as a salesman. He decided that his brother’s success could be duplicated, so one day over dinner, he had the idea of opening his own store called ‘Krazy Kelly’s', which would cater to a larger audience and sell more than just televisions. His store was very successful, eventually sprouting three sister locations in Windsor.
Meanwhile, his brother had his sights set on larger growth and had expanded to Chatham, London and out to the West Coast. Business was fantastic. Krazy Kelly’s and McKay’s became the largest independent electronics chain in Canada, with more than 68 stores between them. Changing market conditions eventually saw some Madman McKay’s close and some re-brand as Krazy Kelly’s.
In 2009, the last store belonging to Bill McKay – the Krazy Kelly’s on Jefferson in Windsor - closed due to Bill’s passing. It was reopened by Geoff McKay in the days that followed. He just couldn’t see such a household name disappear. And he knew that his brother’s staff would be proud to continue their careers within the KK family.
Today, Geoff proudly operates locations in Leamington and Windsor. Many other KK stores still exist, but have been sold to their respective managers or territory managers.
In order to remain the most competitive in the industry, KK has joined the Cantrex/Sears buying group and has become a Cybertronic (La Clef De Sol, in Quebec) banner store. This allows KK to get big buy prices just like the Big Box stores without having to sacrifice their integrity or selection.
Krazy Kelly’s currently carries a huge selection of televisions, audio, accessories and mattresses. We also specialize in 12 Volt and car stereos at the Leamington location.
We look forward to seeing you in one of our stores!
