CHILLICOTHE— At 25 years old some people are fresh out of college working a starter job while others are starting the create a life and family for themselves.
At 25 years old Levi Garrett is busy as an entrepreneur helping run two local businesses.
Garrett started his career at the Game On store in Chillicothe working, learning the trade and connecting with the community. He said Ohio actually has quite a large gaming and collectible community. He would eventually work his way up and buy into the company after a few years.
With gaming going more digital he knew he wanted to diversify. That is why Pop Culture Toys and Collectibles focuses more on collectibles. Garrett said that personally his favorite thing in the store is the Lego section but the plushies seem to be some of the most popular items selling out almost as soon as they come in. He also has a variety of Funko Pop figures in the store, some rarer than others.
Growing up Garrett said he always wanted to own a business, his favorite part is getting to meet all of the different people in the community. He said the gaming community is very tight-knit so when running a store it is easy to connect with regulars and find out what they like. Garrett said he loves seeing a customer’s face light up when they find a collectible from their favorite series.
As an owner and part owner of three stores, Garrett’s schedule can be hectic as he tries to manage it all. It took nonstop work to get where he is today but that work didn’t stop once he became an owner. Wanting to be active in all locations he tries to split his time evenly between the three as best he can.
Garrett also continues to work toward different goals in the stores saying that you can’t be afraid of risks. He hopes to continue growing the collectible store and open up another location near the Game On in Circleville. He said that the gaming and collectible stores being near each other can create a haven of sorts for local nerds.
Shelby Reeves is a reporter for the Chillicothe Gazette. You can email her at [email protected] or follow her on Twitter @Shelby_Reeves_
