Batteries Plus Bulbs: Hiring, Background Check & Employment Verification FAQs

Batteries Plus was founded in November 1988 by Ron Rezetko, who opened the first store in Green Bay, Wisconsin, initially focused solely on selling batteries for a wide range of applications, including consumer electronics, automotive, and industrial uses. The company built a reputation for carrying hard-to-find and discontinued batteries for older appliances and antique vehicles. In 1992, four years after the original store opened, Batteries Plus began franchising, with the first franchise location opened by husband-and-wife team Dan and Susan Manwaring in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

The company established its corporate headquarters in Hartland, Wisconsin, in 1998, as the franchise approached 100 stores. In 2010, after surpassing 500 locations, Batteries Plus expanded into light bulbs and LED products, rebranding as Batteries Plus Bulbs to reflect the broader product line. The company later added smartphone and tablet repair services in 2014, followed by key fob cutting and programming in 2017, and became the first retailer certified under the CTIA's Wireless Industry Service Excellence (WISE) Technician Certification Program in 2019. The company has since rebranded again to simply Batteries Plus. Ownership has passed through private equity firms, with Freeman Spogli & Co. acquiring the company from Roark Capital in 2016.

Batteries Plus operates as a franchise system, meaning most stores are independently owned and operated by franchisees under the corporate brand and supply chain, supported by the company's Ascent Battery Supply logistics division. The company's workforce includes retail sales associates, battery and lighting specialists, and certified device repair technicians who handle smartphone, tablet, and key fob services.

Company culture and employee programs: Batteries Plus emphasizes technical expertise and a one-stop-shop model for power, lighting, and repair needs, distinguishing itself from general retailers through specialized product knowledge. The company has invested in formal technician certification programs to build trust with customers around its repair services. Because most locations are independently owned franchises, workplace culture, benefits, and scheduling can vary considerably by location; candidates should confirm specifics with the franchise owner where they are applying.

Yes. Employers in the specialty retail and device repair industry, including Batteries Plus franchise locations, are legally permitted to conduct pre-employment background checks on job candidates, provided they comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws. In the United States, employment screening is governed by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), which requires employers to obtain written consent, provide disclosures, and follow adverse action procedures.

Batteries Plus locations are generally reported to conduct background checks as part of their hiring process, consistent with standard practice for retail and device repair employers, particularly for technician roles that involve handling customer devices.

The hiring process for store and technician roles at Batteries Plus typically includes an application, an interview with the franchise owner or store manager, and a background check prior to a final offer. Device repair technicians may also need to complete manufacturer or industry certification training.

Background check timelines can vary based on the type of screening requested and how quickly records can be verified. Learn more about typical background check turnaround times to understand what factors can affect the process.

A typical pre-employment background check for a specialty retail or repair role may include:

Under the FCRA, criminal history reporting is generally limited to seven years for most background checks, though state laws may extend or restrict this timeframe depending on the type of record and jurisdiction.

Hiring decisions involving candidates with criminal records are generally made on a case-by-case basis by the individual franchise owner, taking into account the nature of the offense, how much time has passed, and its relevance to the role, particularly for technician positions that involve handling customer devices and personal data. Some states have adopted "ban-the-box" laws that restrict when employers can ask about criminal history during the hiring process.

Candidates can generally expect to provide personal information such as full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number, along with signed consent authorizing the background check, in compliance with FCRA requirements.

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is a federal law that regulates how employers can use background check information in hiring decisions. It requires employers to notify candidates before running a check, obtain written consent, and follow specific adverse action procedures if a decision is made based on background check results.

Running a personal background check with Checkr lets you preview what Batteries Plus may see during the hiring process, helping you address any concerns before you apply. A personal background check can include:

Learn more about Checkr Personal Background Checks and explore your Checkr Profile to see what information may appear in your own background check.

If you're a candidate with a background check in progress through Checkr as part of your application to Batteries Plus or another employer, you can check your status through the Candidate Portal. For additional support, visit the Checkr Help Center.

The information provided in this article does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. All information is for general informational purposes only. Checkr does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of this information and is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. This article may contain links to other third-party websites. Such links are only for the convenience of the reader. Checkr does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites and disclaims any affiliation with the companies mentioned in this article unless otherwise stated.