Ep.29 "Fun in Boxes" at Eclectic Games

With Becky Ottery

Guest Names: Becky Ottery

Episode Description:

In this episode, we speak with Becky Ottery, co-owner of Eclectic Games, a specialist board game retailer in Reading.

Driven by a shared passion for gaming and a desire to provide a welcoming space for players, Becky and her husband Darrell founded Eclectic Games in 2006. We delve into their journey, from navigating the challenges of starting an independent business to overcoming obstacles like the pandemic and the rise of online retail.

Becky discusses the importance of building strong customer relationships, providing expert advice, and creating a unique in-store experience that complements online shopping. She shares insights on marketing strategies, including community outreach, local partnerships, and the power of word-of-mouth recommendations.

Eclectic Games website: https://www.eclecticgames.co.uk/

Eclectic Games Social Channels:

Fancy buying fun in a box to suit you? Visit the shop in Reading centre:

Eclectic Games Ltd

5 Union Street

Reading

RG1 1EU

Listen to the episode

Episode Time Codes

00:21 Introduction

00:34 Introduction to Becky and Eclectic Games

01:16 What Becky likes about Reading, UK

02:08 Why Becky and Darrell decided to start Eclectic Games

05:38 What advice Becky would give her younger self

07:41 You need to find a work: Life balance!

08:36 How Eclectic Games complements Amazon

11:05 Challenges and how Eclectic Games gives its customers value

15:21 Most popular items

17:30 Becky’s favourite games

19:43 Card games Becky and Darrell play together

20:51 Spiel in Essen: the biggest boardgame show in the world

21: 15 Staying up to date with the industry

24:01 Eclectic Games marketing strategy

27:37 My favourite part of running a game shop

28:03 What’s next for Eclectic Games

29:55 Becky’s goals for Eclectic Games

31:47 Eclectic Games “Retailer of the year 2024” award at Pride of Reading

32:35 Becky’s final thoughts

Download text transcript

Videos

Key takeaways

Focus on Customer Value: Eclectic Games thrives by emphasising customer service and providing expert advice. They understand their unique offering, which is crucial for competing with online giants like Amazon. This highlights the importance of identifying and focusing on your unique strengths and offering something that customers can’t easily find elsewhere.

Build Strong Community: Eclectic Games actively fosters a community around gaming by organising events, partnering with local venues, and engaging with customers. This not only drives business but also strengthens brand loyalty and creates a positive word-of-mouth effect.

Embrace Your Niche: Eclectic Games specialises in board games, allowing them to develop deep expertise and cater to a specific audience. By focusing on a niche market, they can better understand their customers’ needs and build a loyal following.

Episode references

Ticket to Ride is the game that Becky was playing at the time of recording. The one in store is a more cost effective version. Check it out if you’re interested in trains. Ask advice in store:

https://www.eclecticgames.co.uk/p/ticket-to-ride