Years ago, if you wanted to buy some miniatures or hobby supplies you had to go into a brick and mortar store. Fast forward 20 years and now you can get everything you need online while sitting in your underwear.

Stores stay in business by selling products to people directly, they rely on footfall. So, the way stores run has been changed over the years. There’s a greater emphasis on playing in stores now, stores run more events to try and bring people into the store with the hope that you will become a regular and thus spending money within that store.

And so, this begs the question, should you support your local store? The answer depends on your situation.

Situation 1

A few things should be taken into account. Do you play in that store? Use their terrain and tables? Hang about chatting to meet friends?

If the answer to these questions is yes,then I would say yes, you should support that store.

Don’t be THAT guy and say, “But I can get it cheaper online!”. You may be able to get it cheaper online, but what happens when others start saying the same thing? The shop brings in less money, begins to order less stock, closes the odd day because they can’t afford to open and eventually, it closes for good. Where are you going to play now, at the online store?

No. So don’t be a dick and support the store you play in.

Situation 2

You meet regularly to play at a friend’s house because its more convenient than going to the local store. You might not like the store, or you’re not keen on the owner, or perhaps they don’t play the games you play.

You have no obligation to support that store because you don’t frequent it. However, I think you should still consider supporting the store as you never know when you may need it.

Rambling conclusion

Wargames stores are a rare sight and sometimes bring in new people to the hobby, which is always good thing. Plus, you never know when you will need that certain paint there and then. Isn’t it convenient if the local store is there?

So please consider supporting local stores, even if it’s just a little. You will miss them when they are gone.