In a city where local community and niche passions intertwine beautifully, Boomtown Sports Cards and Pokéshop stands out as a haven for San Antonio’s enthusiasts of trading cards and collectibles. Nestled in the heart of this vibrant city, the shop isn’t just a business; it’s a cornerstone of a lively hobbyist community that gathers under its roof. So when owner Vic Nava took to Facebook with what could only be described as a rare and candid glimpse into the less seen challenges of small business ownership, the ripple effect was felt across their loyal customer base. Brace yourselves, said Nava’s heartfelt post, because starting April 18, prices are taking a turn upward.
Vic Nava began with gratitude, thanking his loyal patrons for being true champions of the store’s growth. “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,” his note opened, setting a tone of appreciation and community that has defined Boomtown since its doors swung open for the first time. The post’s emotional core was not just the looming price hike itself but the complex and frankly frustrating reasons behind it.
In a world where much of daily life is touched by policies that seem as distant and unapproachable as the sky, Boomtown has managed to thrive by creating a microcosm of respite from these everyday complexities. People’s love for trading cards and collectibles thrives on joy, nostalgia, and connection—not economics. “We choose to keep our heads in the hobby and keep the world’s problems away,” Nava wrote. Yet, as bounding costs driven by swirling global trade policies started to infiltrate this haven of happiness, reality had to be addressed. “Sadly the real world and all its BS has begun to affect our hobby.”
The catalyst for this impending change arrived in the form of two unwelcome emails, like an unwanted duo of pesky gremlins. These missives from distributors announced a staggering 100% increase in the cost of essential plastic supplies. “Yeah…100%….we are pissed too,” Vic disclosed, sans any sugar coating. This was a plight of finances, and no amount of enchanting trading cards can flip into a magic solution. Boomtown faced an uncomfortable truth: with supply costs doubling, standing still with current pricing was not an option; the business’s health was at stake. “I don’t agree with it and I don’t want to do it. If I keep prices the same, this could really hurt our business,” he explained, with transparency as his ally.
If there was any looming fear of backlash from Boomtown’s dedicated community, these concerns were eased almost immediately. Customers responded not with ire but with warmth and staunch support. Like a well-loved sports team rallying together in the final inning, supportive comments poured in. JD Nash, one of Boomtown’s loyal fans, commented with unwavering support: “Do what you gotta do, brotha. We’ll still support no matter what. Always a pleasure coming into the shop.” Another faithful patron, Rey Jimenez, added a personal heartfelt note, sharing how Boomtown’s existence has shaped family traditions: “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!”
By opening up about the inner workings and trials of maintaining a cozy haven like Boomtown amidst complex international tides, Vic Nava did more than announce a price hike. He reminded everyone how local businesses, even in their quaint world of hobbies and collections, are bound into the greater weave of international dynamics. As his message ripples out, it reinforces the understanding that it’s not just trading cards and plastic that have become pricier; it’s a reflection of how interconnected our world has become.
San Antonio’s hobbyists and collectors, ever resilient and supportive, may soon find themselves digging a little deeper into their pockets. But the increased tags come with the comfort of knowing that they support not just a shop, but an irreplaceable pocket of passion—an ecosystem of camaraderie and shared memories. The Boomtown spirit is one of hope and unity, showcasing that when the chips are down, a true community rallies together, nurturing one of their own back into thriving action.
