Gaming and "geek" retailer to create 600 jobs with 100 new UK high street stores

A UK entertainment retailer has today announced plans to create 600 jobs and open 100 new stores across the country in the next two years.

Geek Retreat, which is a comic bookstore, gaming cafe and events hub chain, will open 100 high street stores across the UK before the end of 2022.

The company, which currently owns 14 venues, said that the expansion comes following the popularity of franchises such as Marvel and Stranger Things, and that the industry is predicted to grow by 3.1 per cent annually going forward.

Peter Dobson, chief executive of Geek Retreat, commented: “The UK’s gaming and hobby sector is a real success story and Geek Retreat is a home for the communities who are at the heart of this phenomenon.

“The wellbeing of our customers and staff has always been incredibly important to us – now more than ever everyone should expect a friendly, safe and clean environment to meet and play.

“We have made sure all of our stores are welcoming and accessible to gamers whatever their interests, providing a place for our loyal customers to get out of the house and play safely post-lockdown.

“This is particularly important for our more vulnerable customers, like those on the autistic spectrum, or with mental health issues where being in an inclusive, welcoming, and social environment is very important.

“It is the strength of the relationships which our stores build with local communities that is a key driver of growth.”

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