We caught up with the family behind Kushti Comics to find out more about their passion for all things collectable, their recent expansion, and how they’ve built a vibrant community right in the heart of Festival Place.
Owned by a husband-and-wife duo Daniel and Jeni Gray, and their two children Lauren and Robert also work alongside them.
Tell us about Kushti Comics and how it all began.
Kushti Comics is a comic book, collector, and hobby shop with a big love for all things Pokémon, retro toys and – you guessed it – comic books! Now in our third year of trading, we're proud to be a family-run business. Our family all help to run the shop together seven days a week during FP opening hours.
As we’ve grown, we’ve welcomed a few extra team members into the fold, and while they may not be family by blood, we treat them like they are. We’re a family-first business in every sense.
You recently moved into a new unit - how's that been?
Since moving into our new space, the support has been incredible. The community has really shown up for us, and we’re so grateful for their continued backing.
The additional space means we can stock more of the things everyone loves. It’s also allowed us to host bigger and better leagues, tournaments, and card game challenges – helping to bring more people together through shared passions.
What inspired you to open your own business?
Opening Kushti Comics was a dream, long in the making. Growing up, I loved visiting comic shops and hobby stores, and I’ve always felt that Basingstoke was missing that kind of space. I wanted to create a place that sparked the same kind of excitement and community for others that I experienced as a kid.
Now we're able to give that back by building a space filled with nostalgia, fun, and shared interests.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of starting their own business?
Make sure it’s something you truly love and are passionate about – because running a small business takes time, energy, and a lot of hard work. There will be sacrifices, so having that genuine passion is key to making it all worthwhile.
What do small businesses like yours bring to the local community?
Being a trading card game shop, we offer more than just products – we provide a safe and fun environment where people can come together, make friends, and enjoy the hobbies they love.
We’ve helped form friendships, build a real sense of community among players and collectors, and created a welcoming space where everyone feels at home. As a small business, we also get to know our customers personally, by name and always strive to offer a warm service.
Why should customers support local businesses?
Shopping locally keeps small businesses like ours alive – and that means the world to us. We’re not a big corporate machine. We’re people who genuinely care about the items we stock and the communities we serve.
Every purchase helps us continue as a family, hire passionate staff, and keep growing a community of collectors, players, and comic lovers. When you choose to shop with us, you’re not just buying a product – you’re supporting a dream.
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