Newcastle's Grainger Games launch "Be More Geek"

Back in 1997 Grainger Games started life as a small stall in Newcastle’s Grainger Market. In the 20 years that have followed, Grainger Games has expanded its store base to 68 branches across the North of England and Wales.

Specialising in new and used video games and digital content, second hand mobile phone and tablets, console and gadget repairs as well as a competitive trade in model; Grainger Games has diversified its range of in store products and services in light of a challenging video games market and an increase in digital sales.

Following the boom in pop and geek culture Grainger Games was keen to expand its range of licenced merchandise and toys at the start of 2017. Starting with the enormously popular POP! Vinyl figures supplied by Funko, expansion began on a new range tailored to new and existing customers. POP! Vinyl figures were followed by a comprehensive range of licenced apparel, mugs, toys, gifts and gizmos from various new and existing suppliers.

More space was needed to showcase the new products and with that came a new name for the project and the sections within the stores; ‘Be More Geek’. Be More Geek started initially in February as a trial in 5 stores but due to its success and overwhelmingly positive reception from customers it was quickly steamrolled into more stores. By June, 25 stores had a fully-fledged Be More Geek section offering a comprehensive range of pop culture merchandise.

Pivotal to the rollout is Grainger Games continuing superb relationship with Funko UK who supply the Be More Geek range with an ever expanding selection of POP! Vinyl figures, plush toys, mystery mini figures, keychains and a range of licenced homeware stock. As the fastest growing toy company in the world, Funko shares the same drive and ambition as Grainger Games as it looks to deliver an outstanding offer for consumers and to drive its brand as far as possible.

“Starting from modest beginnings in 2016 Grainger Games has developed an extensive portfolio with Funko. From an initial 16 item offer, Grainger consumers can now enjoy in excess of 1000 exciting Funko products.

The key to Grainger Games success with Funko is the focus and dedication by its passionate staff including the creation and launch of the new Be More Geek store section. A host of terrific new products being added daily.

With the rapid development of this partnership, Funko are delighted to be a strategic partner to Grainger and look forward to continued growth throughout 2017 and beyond.

Watch this space!” - Andrew Kay, Sales Manager, Funko UK

As the kid’s summer holidays crept closer, Grainger Games was committed to launching a Be More Geek section in each of their stores in time for the break. And that objective was completed on Friday 21st of July when every store across the business had the section implemented and ready to be shopped!

Be More Geek has outperformed every financial forecast put in front of it and momentum doesn’t seem to be slowing down. With that comes a renewed optimism from within the company and a real purposeful desire to deliver an outstanding, fresh and exciting offer for our loyal and fantastic customers who recognise Grainger Games as a value led and diverse retailer.

Plans are already in motion to increase Be More Geek selling opportunities and to further grow the brand. A dedicated section on our website, pop up stores across broader regions, subscription boxes and loyalty schemes for customers are but a few of ideas in the pipeline.