New owner emerges on Brandon’s I Want That Stuff

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This article was published 02/10/2023 (1092 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

I Want That Stuff a staple in Brandon’s gaming and collectibles community, is undergoing a change in ownership. Founder James Ruser is passing the torch to Corey Trumbley, who has been an integral part of the store for several years.

“When I started the store in 2012 at 711 on 10th Street I didn’t know what to expect,” Ruser told the Sun. “I had bought 20 boxes of comic books at an auction, and my basement was threatening to flood. I thought, maybe I should start a small store.”

He said the store has evolved over the years, becoming a hub for collectibles from the ’80s onwards and gaming supplies, including Magic: The Gathering and hockey cards.

Reflecting on the challenges faced, “When we started, it was a new concept for Brandon. Other stores had done small things, but nothing dedicated to collectibles from the ’80s.” However, Ruser’s determination paid off as he created a space where people of all ages could connect over shared passions and engage in face-to-face interactions.

As for the decision to pass the reins to Corey Trumbley, he said he’s been juggling a lot between running the store and his other business. “I have a young family, and I found that my focus was slipping.”

He expressed confidence in Trembley’s ability to take the store to the next level, citing his passion and deep knowledge of the industry.

Trumbley, who has been with the store for five years and currently serves as its manager, is excited about the new responsibility. He emphasized his commitment to maintaining the store’s sense of community, growth, and most importantly, fun.

“We want to meet the changing needs of the community and keep up with new trends in hobbies and entertainment,” he told the Sun. “One of the store’s strengths is its ability to offer a wide range of collectibles and gaming supplies that may not be readily available in larger cities. We have stuff that you might not find in bigger areas.”

As for expansion plans, Trumbley shared, “We’re currently renovating and changing our space. We want to continue evolving to meet the community’s needs. Expansion is something we’ll consider in the future. We just passed the 33,000 order milestone last week and we have plans to hit 100,000 orders in the next few years.”

He said that a crucial aspect of the new management’s mission is to continue nurturing the community because Brandon sees a constant influx of newcomers.

“Whether they are relocating for work or settling into a fresh environment, such as military personnel who frequently join our community,” he said. “With this ongoing influx of new faces, our aim is to be a reliable resource for their gaming, hobby, and entertainment requirements, ensuring that we grow together as a community.”

Trumbley emphasized that in three words, the guiding principles for the business would be “community,” “growth,” and “fun.” He reiterated his commitment to continue offering activities beloved by the patrons while actively supporting the development of the community.

He said the founder had already laid a strong foundation for a remarkable community, and their goal was to preserve and expand upon it.

I Want That Stuff remains the same, but with a fresh leadership perspective,” Trumbley said. “The core values and messages remained consistent.”

Ruser said the store’s impact extends beyond business, with a strong focus on community involvement and charitable initiatives.

A couple of years ago, the business raised money to buy video gaming consoles for young patients at the hospital cancer ward.

“We had a comedy night at the old store and raised enough money so that we could donate five Xbox Ones, so that when the kids are in longterm care there, they have a gaming system to play and stuff.”

Ruser expressed his excitement for the future, saying, “I know Trumbley is the right steward for this. Sometimes you sell a business not just for money but because you know it’s the right person to take it forward.”

» aodutola@brandonsun.com

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