Bill and Tony, two of the three founders of Run It Back a brand-new gaming lounge and card shop located in Grayslake. Open for less than two weeks at the time of recording, the business has already made a fantastic impression on the community. Bill and Tony share their vision of creating a welcoming "third space" for all ages, featuring PC and console gaming stations, a retro gaming room, card tournaments, and a shop carrying Pokémon, sports cards, and more.
Building Community Through Gaming: The Story and Strategy Behind Run It Back in Grayslake
Welcome to another in-depth feature from the heart of Grayslake! Today, we're diving into the inspiring journey of Run It Back, a gaming lounge and card shop that's quickly becoming a local favorite. Based on a recent episode of the Discovery and Grayslake podcast, we'll break down the main themes, actionable tips, and expert insights shared by founders Bill and Tony. Whether you're a gaming enthusiast, a small business owner, or someone passionate about community spaces, there's a wealth of knowledge here for you.
Table of Contents
The Power of Local Roots and Friendship Choosing the Right Location: Visibility and Community Creating a Multi-Generational Gaming Space Blending Retro and Modern Gaming Experiences Making Collectible Cards Accessible and Fun Building Community Through Events and Tournaments Flexible Pricing and Memberships for All Partnering with Local Businesses Leveraging Online Platforms for Growth Continuous Improvement and Community Feedback Final Thoughts: The Hometown Advantage
1. The Power of Local Roots and Friendship
Key Insight: Bill and Tony's story is rooted in long-standing friendship and local ties. Both grew up in the Grayslake area, attended local high schools, and have deep connections to the community.
Actionable Advice: Leverage Local Networks:** If you're starting a business, tap into your hometown connections. Familiarity with the area and its people can help you understand community needs and build trust quickly. Build with Friends:** Shared history and trust among founders can make the entrepreneurial journey smoother and more resilient.
Expert Tip: Don't underestimate the value of local goodwill. People love supporting businesses run by "one of their own."
2. Choosing the Right Location: Visibility and Community
Key Insight: Run It Back's founders prioritized visibility and accessibility when choosing their location. After their first choice fell through, they pivoted quickly, relying on local tips and their own knowledge of the area.
Actionable Advice: Scout for High-Visibility Spots:** Look for locations near other popular businesses or community hubs. Foot traffic and easy access are crucial for new ventures. Be Flexible:** If your first choice doesn't work out, stay open to alternatives. Sometimes, the "second best" option turns out to be the perfect fit.
Expert Tip: Ask friends, family, and local business owners for leads on available spaces. Word-of-mouth can uncover hidden gems.
3. Creating a Multi-Generational Gaming Space
Key Insight: Run It Back is intentionally designed to welcome all ages—from kids to adults, casual players to hardcore gamers.
Actionable Advice: Segment Your Hours:** Dedicate early hours to families and kids, and reserve late-night slots for adult gamers. This ensures everyone feels comfortable and catered to. Offer Something for Everyone:** Combine video gaming, card games, and board games to appeal to a broad audience.
Expert Tip: Position your business as a "third space"—not home, not work, but a welcoming community hub.
4. Blending Retro and Modern Gaming Experiences
Key Insight: The founders are passionate about reviving the social, in-person gaming experience, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge technology.
Actionable Advice: Create a Retro Room:** Set up classic consoles (think Atari, Donkey Kong, Mario Party) alongside modern PCs and consoles. This attracts both older gamers and curious younger players. Encourage Social Play:** Design your space to foster face-to-face interaction—couches, shared tables, and group tournaments.
Expert Tip: Host "throwback nights" or themed events to celebrate gaming history and bring generations together.
5. Making Collectible Cards Accessible and Fun
Key Insight: Run It Back started as a card shop and remains committed to making collecting accessible, especially for kids.
Actionable Advice: Combat Scalping:** Keep prices fair and offer free packs or affordable options for young collectors. Diversify Inventory:** Stock popular lines like Pokémon, Magic, and sports cards, but also introduce niche or international games (e.g., Azuki from Japan). Educate New Collectors:** Host "how-to" sessions or beginner nights to help newcomers learn the ropes.
Expert Tip: Use online platforms like Whatnot to reach a broader audience and move high-value inventory, but keep your in-store experience welcoming and inclusive.
6. Building Community Through Events and Tournaments
Key Insight: Events are at the heart of Run It Back's community-building strategy, from casual tournaments to movie watch parties.
Actionable Advice: Host Regular Tournaments:** Use simple, inclusive formats (e.g., names in a hat, double elimination) and keep entry fees low. Offer Prizes:** Even small rewards can boost participation and excitement. Create Social Events:** Movie nights, watch parties, and themed gatherings foster a sense of belonging.
Expert Tip: Encourage friendly competition and sportsmanship. Make sure your staff sets the tone for a welcoming, respectful environment.
7. Flexible Pricing and Memberships for All
Key Insight: Run It Back offers a range of pricing options to suit different needs and budgets.
Actionable Advice: Hourly Rates:** $10/hour for consoles, $12/hour for PCs. Free Board Gaming:** Keep some activities free to lower the barrier to entry. Membership Tiers:** Offer monthly memberships with perks like free hours, discounts, and exclusive access. Event Packages:** Birthday party packages ($299 for two hours) make the space accessible for special occasions.
Expert Tip: Regularly review your pricing to ensure it remains competitive and accessible, especially for families and young gamers.
8. Partnering with Local Businesses
Key Insight: Collaboration with nearby businesses (like Papa John's for pizza) enhances the customer experience and strengthens community ties.
Actionable Advice: Cross-Promote:** Work with local restaurants, shops, and service providers to offer bundled deals or special promotions. Support Each Other:** Refer your customers to neighboring businesses and vice versa.
Expert Tip: Joint events (e.g., pizza and gaming nights) can draw larger crowds and introduce your business to new audiences.
9. Leveraging Online Platforms for Growth
Key Insight: Run It Back uses platforms like Whatnot, Instagram, Facebook, and Discord to build its brand and connect with customers.
Actionable Advice: Sell Online:** Use auction sites to reach collectors beyond your local area. Stay Active on Social Media:** Share updates, event announcements, and behind-the-scenes content to keep your community engaged. Build a Discord Server:** Foster ongoing conversation and community among your most dedicated fans.
Expert Tip: Your website should be more than a digital business card—include inventory updates, event sign-ups, and community resources.
10. Continuous Improvement and Community Feedback
Key Insight: Bill and Tony are committed to evolving their offerings based on customer feedback and community needs.
Actionable Advice: Solicit Feedback:** Regularly ask customers what they'd like to see—new games, events, or amenities. Stay Agile:** Be willing to pivot or expand your offerings as trends and interests shift. Celebrate Milestones:** Mark anniversaries, big tournaments, or community achievements with special events.
Expert Tip: Transparency and responsiveness build loyalty. Let your community know you're listening and adapting.
11. Final Thoughts: The Hometown Advantage
Run It Back's story is a testament to the power of local roots, friendship, and a genuine desire to serve the community. By blending nostalgia with innovation, and prioritizing inclusivity and accessibility, Bill and Tony have created more than just a gaming lounge—they've built a new "third space" for Grayslake.
If you're in the area, stop by, say hello, and experience the magic for yourself. And if you're building your own community-focused business, take a page from Run It Back's playbook: stay rooted, stay flexible, and always put people first.
Connect with Run It Back
Instagram & Facebook:** Look for the big neon "Run It Back" sign Website:** Coming soon with inventory and event updates Discord:** Join to connect with fellow gamers and collectors
Subscribe to the Discovery and Grayslake podcast for more local stories, and remember: a couple of random acts of kindness can make all the difference. See you next time!
