$30,000
$216,600 - $329,000
3rd Party
business hours, evenings & weekends, flexible
Secret to Success: Community, Customers
When Craig Ackerman took over a Play N Trade store in Comstock Park, Michigan, he didn't know all the specifics of how he planned to become successful. However, he did know a few things. Namely, success comes through hard work, great customer service, and community relations. With those ideals in mind, Ackerman set out to make his mark in the community.
"The first thing I realized we needed was just to build a fan base," Ackerman said. "We really believe in grassroots marketing, just getting people to talk about Play N Trade. I got out there and started to talk to people and see what we needed to do."
Focusing his efforts on building a local brand, Ackerman sponsored the Grand Rapids White Caps, a local minor-league baseball team. He also sent out Valpak coupons and set up a tent at a local community festival where people could come in, relax and play video games.
"I'm just a regular guy working really, really hard," Ackerman said. "The key is to get into events, treat people well, and love the work that you do."
Ackerman's success story is one of many examples of individuals who have turned Play N Trade into the world's largest and most successful video game franchise. Other owners have obtained likewise results by being sure to hire the right employees: those who are avid gamers and provide exceptional customer service. Creativity is key, and franchisees are writing their own success stories each day.
About Play N Trade
Play N Trade is one of the largest and fastest growing video game franchises worldwide. They have opened more than 250 stores with plans to have over 300 open by then end of 2009. The company provides exceptional training, support and marketing systems to its store owners, who in turn provide an outstanding customer experience for their shoppers. Play N Trade customers can try any video game before they buy, participate in local and national tournaments, have their consoles and games repaired, as well as buy, sell and trade video games.
