For comic books and collectibles shop Hall of Heroes, it’s back to where it all began.
The store first opened in downtown Mt. Pleasant thirteen years ago before it left for one strip mall location after another. But a confluence of events has resulted in owner Michael Shuler moving his comic book shop back downtown after several years away.
Since opening its new location this past July, Shuler has seen a noticeable uptick in new customers. He says it’s something that can be attributed, at least in part, to downtown’s walkable city sidewalks versus the old store’s strip mall and parking lot-centric location.
"We’re averaging 60 percent more new customers a month. That’s been one of the best parts," Shuler says.
"I’ve also discovered that the majority of our customers live in the area and this is a close walk for them. We’re getting much more walk-in traffic, more kids, more families. It’s been a better experience."
Hall of Heroes now occupies a nearly 100 year-old building on Broadway Street. Though smaller than their previous location, Shuler appreciates the new store’s historic charm with its tall and old-fashioned tin-stamped ceilings.
The smaller location could be a sign of the times. Once a haven for table games like Magic: The Gathering, Hall of Heroes downsized as the game has diminished in popularity. Though they still host game nights, Shuler has since renewed his focus on carrying comic books and collectibles.
Shuler says that Hall of Heroes carries about 90 percent of the comic books out there. He offers a subscription service as well as special orders. He says that they’re also starting to build up their Dungeons and Dragons line.
Hall of Heroes is now located at 201-1/2 E. Broadway St. in downtown Mt. Pleasant.
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