WINDHAM, Maine — Back in the '80s, RadioShack was the go-to spot for the latest gadgets and tech needs.
Some franchise stores have stood the test of time, but not many.
On Sunday, one of the last remaining RadioShack shops in Maine closed. But it's not so much the store as the man who ran it that people will miss.
Neil Esposito worked at the Windham RadioShack since 1982.
"I have been here myself for about 43 years," Esposito said.
His father owned the store, but Esposito eventually took it over.
"It's something that just meant a lot to carry on the business. He was getting into the retiring age, and we just continued," he explained.
Esposito met a lot of customers over the years. And as the hand of time ticked on, so did their needs.
"Technology does change," Esposito said. "Seems like every couple weeks, but just try to stay up on it the best you can and have the product that the customer is looking for."
With inventory spanning multiple generations, Esposito spent decades keeping up with the new and the old.
"Even just basic radios these days, people say you just can't find them, and they come in here, and they're like, 'Oh, I can't believe you have it,'" he said.
From old cameras to cassette players to records, Esposito tried to keep some of those things handy. However, his doors won't be open to see a new wave of electronic needs.
With factors like a shift in shopper trends and the popularity of online shopping, Esposito decided it was time to close out this chapter.
"It's sad for the customers, but it's sad for me too," he said.
It's that face-to-face interaction with customers he said he will miss.
"I like the challenge and all the different people that I've dealt with over the years," Esposito said. "It's fun."
Customers say they'll miss Esposito, too.
His son posted on Facebook saying his dad's last day at the store was coming up, and people shared it dozens of times and left heartfelt messages thanking Esposito for his service over the years.
As times change, sometimes you have to change with it.
"It's going to be sad to close the doors, but life goes on," he said.
However, that can open the door to a new adventure.
"I'm still going to be operating remotely the best I can just to continue to help people out, but it's a big change."
Esposito said he's shifting online to continue helping people with their electronics needs. He's working on a website, but for now, you can email him at radioshackguyneil@gmail.com.
Even though Sunday was his last day, Esposito said he'll be at the store Monday and Tuesday if anyone wants to stop by.