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TOP 20 UK INDIES
Independent retailers, the Davids of Britain’s games industry, continue to surprise in their ongoing battle with corporate Goliaths of national chains. James Batchelor and Nindie.com bring a rundown of the best indie stores around the nation…
CHIPS
GRAINGER GAMES
CHIPS maintains its position as one of the UK’s largest independent games retailer, with almost 30 stores spread out all over the country encompassing a mix of company-owned stores and franchised outlets. As it celebrates its 24th year in business, CHIPS’ store count is set to grow even more as the firm strives to match the might of national chains. Only two weeks ago, the indie’s MD told MCV that former GAME and Gamestation staff were enquiring about how they can set up their own franchise. The company also works to stay at the forefront of games retail, trying new initiatives such as the interactive Xplace information kiosks in five of its stores, and maintains a strong web presence with longrunning site www.chipsworld.co.uk. 0870 013 0028
The winner of the Best Independent category at this year’s MCV Industry Excellence Awards. Grainger Games has come a long way from its humble origins as a small stall in Newcastle’s Grainger Arcade back in 1997 – it now owns 26 stores around the North of England, with another to be opened later this month. Five of its stores were only opened last year as Grainger continues to expand in line with its ambitious three-year expansion programme and draws ever nearer to crossing the line between indies and nationals. Grainger Games prides itself on its strong customer proposition and its vibrant branding, as well as the close working relationships it has forged with many of the leading players in the industry. 0191 218 1827