At its peak, Crazy Eddie reported annual sales of more than $350 million. In a plea bargain, Eddie Antar pleaded guilty to one charge of racketeering conspiracy and served nearly seven years in federal prison. In 2001, Mr. Antar joined with some former associates to remake Crazy Eddie as an internet company, but the effort ultimately fell apart. Despite its demise, the Crazy Eddie chain became an enduring symbol for bargain-basement retail. On Sunday, several people posted comments to a Facebook page for former Crazy Eddie employees acknowledging his flaws, while remembering him fondly.

Source: New York Times September 12, 2016 00:33 UTC