When it comes to antique restoration, few names are as well-known as Rick’s Restorations. Made famous by the History Channel’s hit show American Restoration, the Las Vegas-based business captured the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. The shop’s founder, Rick Dale, created stunning, completely functional pieces out of rusted, forgotten treasures. But over the years, questions have emerged: Is Rick’s Restorations still in business, and what really happened to the company?
History of Rick’s Restorations
Rick Dale began restoring items long before TV fame. In the 1980s, he took on small projects, such as repairing vintage Coca-Cola machines, to support his family. Over time, his reputation grew, and Rick’s Restorations officially became a full-service restoration shop specializing in Americana—everything from slot machines and jukeboxes to gas pumps and even cars.
In 2010, the History Channel launched American Restoration, with Rick and his team as the stars. The show ran for six seasons and turned the workshop into a tourist attraction in Las Vegas. Fans would visit, take tours, and watch the team bring vintage items back to life. At its peak, Rick’s Restorations was both a business and an entertainment brand.
Is Rick’s Restorations Still in Business?
Unfortunately, Rick’s Restorations is no longer in business. The shop is listed as permanently closed, and tourists can no longer visit its Las Vegas location.Following American Restoration’s demise in 2016, the company gradually dwindled. While Rick and his family occasionally share updates online, the physical shop that once drew crowds has shut its doors.
What Happened to Rick’s Restorations
The downfall of Rick’s Restorations is tied closely to television. Once American Restoration ended, the shop lost much of its visibility and customer base. Unlike other reality TV shops, such as Gas Monkey Garage, Rick’s Restorations did not pivot strongly into merchandise, branding, or independent media. As a result, without the consistent TV exposure, business slowed and eventually closed.
What Led to Rick’s Restorations Going Out of Business?
Several factors played a role in Rick’s Restorations closing down:
- Dependence on TV Popularity – The business thrived mainly because of the show’s exposure. Once that ended, customer traffic dropped significantly.
- High Costs of Restoration Work – Restoring vintage items is expensive, time-consuming, and often unpredictable. Without TV revenue, maintaining a large-scale shop was difficult.
- Limited Diversification – While some shops successfully expanded into e-commerce, events, or branded products, Rick’s Restorations largely remained tied to physical restorations and tours.
It’s worth noting that in business history, this isn’t unique. For example, Circuit City—once a giant electronics retailer—also collapsed because it failed to adapt to changing markets. Just as Circuit City couldn’t compete with Best Buy and online shopping, Rick’s Restorations couldn’t keep pace without its TV-driven audience.
What Happens to the Employees of Rick’s Restorations
The employees who worked alongside Rick Dale became familiar faces on TV. After the closure, many went their separate ways. Rick’s wife, Kelly Dale, started a custom embroidery and laser-cutting business in Las Vegas. Rick himself shifted toward smaller creative projects, occasionally engaging with fans through social media. While some team members pursued independent restoration work, others left the industry altogether.
Is Rick’s Restorations Coming Back to the Market?
As of now, there are no signs that Rick’s Restorations will return as a physical business or TV show. Fans often ask about a revival, but Rick has moved on to other ventures. However, the brand lives on in reruns of American Restoration, fan communities, and the occasional social media update. While a comeback is unlikely, Rick’s influence on the restoration world is undeniable.
Conclusion
Rick’s Restorations was more than just a shop—it was a symbol of creativity, craftsmanship, and American nostalgia. Though it is no longer in business, its legacy lives on in the memories of fans who watched rusty antiques come back to life. The story of Rick’s Restorations also serves as a reminder: businesses tied too closely to one source of income, like a TV show, can struggle once that spotlight fades. While the garage doors may have closed, Rick Dale’s work continues to inspire restorers and collectors everywhere.
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