Fanboys Marketplace
You don’t have to be an avid gamer or toy collector for the mementos that fill the former Stein Mart building off Camp Bowie to captivate you. This legion of bobbleheads and action figures is part of Fanboys Marketplace, the largest collectible toy store throughout Texas.
If you grew up with even an ounce of exposure to Marvel movies and superheroes, your inner child will be elated walking through Fanboys Marketplace. This unique store sells specialty merchandise and collectibles, including toys, art, action figures, comics, games, and more. Visitors can expect to feel welcomed and included from the second they walk through the door. “Even if comic books and collectible toys aren’t your cup of tea, Fanboys has coordinated with a variety of vendors selling everything from jewelry to custom nightlights. There really is something for everyone.
While its headquarters are conveniently located off Camp Bowie next to Tom Thumb, Fanboys has locations at several malls throughout the Metroplex, including North East in Hurst and Golden Triangle in Denton, with plans to expand to Firewheel Town Center in Garland.
Owner and CEO Mike Rogers shared his vision before the store came to be. You see, Mike has always wanted to open a comic book store. “I think we all read comics whenever we were little in some way,” Rogers said.
While this unique pop-culture retail storefront has been around for two years, the company’s initial concept was far different. Pre-pandemic, Fanboys was an events company that hosted and participated in events throughout the world. The pandemic and subsequent cancellation of events gave rise to Fanboys Marketplace.
Fanboys Marketplace
Fanboys
After opening their doors two years ago, Rogers now operates three stores with a fourth underway. In fact, Fanboys will have a presence at every major mall within Tarrant County by the Fall of 2022. Hulen Mall and Parks Mall at Arlington are welcoming the Fanboys concept with open arms. Despite many pivots throughout the pandemic, fans remained loyal and kept this business thriving. COVID couldn’t stop die-hard enthusiasts from convening over shared passions and fulfilling their craving for community.
This is not your average retail operation; Fanboys is its own community. Geeks of all ages convene for events, card games, and mini-leagues to play games together weekly. “One of the things I love about Fanboys is that there are shared interests with the people that come here; people feel a sense of belonging,” Marketing Director Cesar Gamez said, “No matter who you are or what you’re into, you are welcome here.”
This family-run business has yet to meet a stranger. Young and old, customers of all ages can be found perusing for treasures in the form of knickknacks. Cesar said it best, “It allows people an opportunity to re-connect with their childhood.” Check out Fanboys Marketplace.
