| During those years, Dungeons and Dragons made a resurgence with a new version. The store filled up with people playing RPGs. This was also the time when we had a large L5R CCG following here in the store.
Then it hit the fan for a while, when one of our employees was arrested for the unthinkable. Some groups that gamed here disbanded, but the community at large came to our support and we continued. Shortly thereafter, my last employee left, needing to find real work that paid the bills. Since then I have operated the store alone.
The last couple of years have been difficult. The summer of Katrina nearly sunk us and by December it appeared like we would close. Once again, our customers turned out and, with the help of a massive sale, generated enough revenue to put us on track again.
We have a great customer base. Some of them are holdovers from our predecessor and many more have discovered us since. Without their regular support over the years we would not have survived.
Now this industry is in a stagnant period. Most of the major manufacturers are in a malaise, preferring to import pre-painted toys from China. Other board game companies do not know how to keep up with demand. The collectible card market is also losing market share. How many times I hear, "Oh Geez! Another Magic set, already?"
However... One company that we have carried all along, also through times of boom and bust is Games Workshop. They have gone through their own changes but currently they are experiencing a resurgence. Right now our game room is packed on GW nites.
It always seems that as one thing fades, another steps in to take its place. Of course we are always looking for the next big thing. If you know of anything that might be this, feel free to let me know. Give me a call or send me an e-mail.
And... Last but not least, in thanks for all your years of support, we will be having another "end of the year, clear out the deadwood" SALE! Â The sale will begin Friday, November 16 and go on until the end of the year. Be sure to hurry, since the best bargains get snapped up quickly!
Here is wishing everyone the very happiest of holidays and hoping that year eleven here will be our best year ever. With your support, I have no doubt that it will.
Sincerely,
A. Karl Myers
Owner |
