History of Certified Radio
Products
Origins
Shortly after WWII, Hugh Lowe and Chuck Golicky started Certified Auto Radio as an automotive electronics service shop with one bay in downtown Edmonton. In 1967, Bent Jensen joined the company as a technician apprentice.
In 1971, Hugh & Chuck were ready to retire, so young apprentice Bent and the technician, Byron “Buzz” Zinger, bought the company. In 1972, Certified Radio expanded into sales, and opened the now historic location at 107 Avenue and 104 Street. This new location boasted both a sales and service department, with three bays.
After over 40 years servicing automobile manufacturers, in 1999 the Certified Radio service centre was certified to ISO 9002 and QS 9002 quality operating standards. In 2000, they earned Ford’s Q1 award and certified in the ISO/TS 16949:2002 quality operating system from 2003 until June 2008, when Ford/Visteon closed the majority of their North American service centers.
Certified Radio had the distinction of being the only remanufacturing centre in North America to achieve this standard.
Car Audio Gone Wild
Certified Radio is the proud creator of the world-renowned, largest 12 volt car audio sale in North America! In 2004, the car audio world was shaken with this mind-blowing event, where top-of-the-line car audio manufacturers from around the world arrived for North America’s largest off-site car audio sale. An annual in-store event that was highly anticipated by consumers year-round, Certified Radio ran “Car Audio Gone Wild” as one of its premier sales from 2004 to 2016.
Locations
Over the years, Certified Radio has expanded and evolved, moving to new locations to better meet the needs of our customers. Since 2007, we’ve operated from our modern, west-end location featuring an expansive showroom and ten install bays, at 17104-111 Ave, which became the Certified Radio Mega Store until 2024. Our historic North Side location closed in 2010, followed by the iconic Whyte Avenue location in 2019. We are currently operating out of our newest facility, 18550-104 Ave NW, located just off the Anthony Henday West, (next to the Costco business centre) where we continue to offer top-tier car audio and electronics with the same dedication and expertise.
Certified Commercial and Fleet Services (sister company)
In 2018 Certified Commercial and Fleet Services was born. Certified Commercial and Fleet Services quickly became a leader of integrated safety solutions for heavy equipment, commercial, fleet and emergency response vehicles.
Due to rapid expansion, in 2019, they took over the iconic Whyte Avenue location to meet the growing demand for professional installation of proximity radar, DVRs, ELD mounts, collision avoidance systems, and other driver safety technologies.
Following this growth, the Whyte Avenue location was closed and operations moved to Nisku, Alberta, further strengthening their reputation across Western Canada. As of 2025, all operations have been consolidated into our current home inside the Certified Radio building on Edmonton’s west end, where we continue to proudly serve clients across the region.
Innovations & Reputation
Certified Radio has been serving Edmontonians and businesses in western Canada over 70 years. We are more than a retailer of remote car starters and audio systems; our sales staff and installers are constantly trained to give you the best level of service on top of the line products.
We keep pace with the latest in aftermarket technology, from the best car audio products, to remote starter systems, vehicle and truck accessories, cell boosters, radar systems, safety lighting, marine and UTV audio.
The Future
Certified Radio is committed to serving our customers with industry-leading expertise and personalized service. We offer the latest in car audio, automotive electronics, marine and truck accessories, all under one roof. Whether you’re upgrading your sound system or outfitting your vehicle, we strive to be your trusted one-stop shop for quality products and expert installation.
Sustainability Statement
Our team is committed to promoting a sustainable future by integrating environmental, social, and economic responsibility into all areas of our operations. We aim to minimize our environmental impact while supporting balanced, ethical business practices that benefit our stakeholders, employees, and the global community.
Environmental Responsibility:
We are focused on reducing our carbon footprint, minimizing waste by recycling, and improving resource management. Through energy-efficient technologies and conservation efforts, we aim to exceed environmental regulations and continually enhance our sustainability practices.
Social Responsibility:
Our companies are dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within both our workforce and communities. As an equal opportunity employer, we uphold fair labor practices, offer development opportunities, and support initiatives that contribute to societal well-being. Employment decisions, including hiring, promotion, discipline, and termination, are based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs.
Economic Responsibility:
We prioritize long-term value creation by aligning financial growth with ethical business practices. Our commitment to responsible sourcing, transparent supply chains, and economic inclusivity is at the heart of our business model, and we collaborate with partners who share these values.
Commitment to Continuous Improvement:
We monitor and evaluate our sustainability efforts, striving for ongoing progress. Innovation and collaboration, both internally and with external partners, are key to advancing our sustainability goals.
By embracing these principles, we aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society while building a sustainable future for our business.
