In the heart of San Antonio, where the Alamo City harmonizes its historic charm with modern aspirations, a hum of discontent mixes with supportive cheers at Boomtown Sports Cards and Pokéshop. This beloved haven for collectors and hobbyists, owned by Vic Nava, has found itself at a formidable crossroad—a crossroad paved with unforeseen, hefty price tags. As of April 18, patrons ordering from the store will encounter increased prices, a decision born from necessity and explained with transparency by Nava on a heartfelt Facebook post.
Nava’s announcement began on a grateful note, acknowledging the spine of his business—the customers. “First and foremost, thank you all for being a part of the shop’s growth and success. We are still trucking along thanks to you,” he wrote, a nod to the community that has embraced Boomtown as their go-to retreat in the world of collecting.
But what should have been a routine business update quickly unveiled the entangled web of complexities that global trade policies can weave into the tapestry of small-town enterprises. Nava candidly expressed a frustration that’s brewing not just at Boomtown but likely echoes across similar establishments: the broader geopolitical skirmishes that are now touching corner stores in San Antonio.
“We choose to keep our heads in the hobby and keep the world’s problems away,” Nava continued, his words almost a plea for a simpler time, when running a hobby shop didn’t involve navigating the turbulent seas of international tariffs. Yet, reality has a way of intruding, as two emails from Boomtown’s distributors served the harsh news that costs for essential plastic supplies would skyrocket by up to 100%.
Faced with this staggering doubling of costs, Nava found himself in a reluctant yet inevitable position. “Yeah…100%….we are pissed too,” he remarked, his frustration bubbling just beneath the surface. But it was also a wake-up call. Maintaining current pricing structures wasn’t feasible and could potentially lead to financial peril for the business that collectors in San Antonio have grown to cherish.
Nava’s transparency didn’t go unnoticed. Instead of backlash from the community—often a fear when price hikes are announced—it was met with a wave of understanding and loyalty. Comments flooded the Facebook post, thick with support and encouragement. JD Nash, a frequenter of the shop, captured the sentiment of many with his comment, “Do what you gotta do, brotha. We’ll still support no matter what. Always a pleasure coming into the shop.”
Another loyal customer, Rey Jimenez, highlighted how the shop has been more than just a place to buy collectibles—it has sparked joy and inspired a new generation of collectors. “Because of you guys, my two little boys love collecting. Every time we go into San Antonio, that’s our first stop. Keep the hobby alive, brother!” Jimenez shared. Such testimonials underscore the depth of connection between Boomtown and its patrons, suggesting that this isn’t just a shop; it’s a community cornerstone.
This scenario at Boomtown offers a microcosmic view of the macro forces at play—a testament to how international policy can ripple through local economies, affecting not just goods on shelves but the very fabric of community enterprises. Yet, it also showcases the resilience and camaraderie of San Antonio’s collectors, who are standing by Boomtown as prices inevitably adjust to mirror the new economic landscape.
Nava’s forthright approach in communicating the business challenges speaks volumes to his regard for customers. It reflects a business ethos that places transparency and community at its core—a quality that seems increasingly vital as many small businesses face similar hurdles.
Collectors throughout San Antonio may soon encounter higher price tags at Boomtown, a reality that’s never warmly received. Yet, the shop’s candid dealings and its patrons’ unwavering support paint a heartening picture of loyalty and adaptability. The journey for Boomtown Sports Cards and Pokéshop is more than just a business adjustment—it’s a reaffirmation of the resilient spirit that connects local shops to their communities, a fabric woven with shared passions and mutual respect. As supply costs rise, so too does the commitment of collectors in the Alamo City, standing united amidst the challenges, bound by their collective love of the hobby.