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Posted:
6:50 a.m. December 13, 2021
Tucked behind a parking lot on Oulton Broad’s Bridge Road is a hidden antique toy store, unique to the area.
From collectibles and vintage video games to funko pops, the store is every toy collector’s dream.
Twice Treasured, is owned by Justin Lee and opened in March 2020 just before the first nationwide coronavirus lockdown.
Mr Lee has owned the store for a year and a half but is struggling due to the pandemic.
– Credit: Mick Howes
But the company has struggled in recent times, due to the pandemic and its hidden location.
Mr. Lee, 42, thinks the store offers something unique to the city.
He said: “I think we are quite unique in the area and the people we meet really love the store.
“I owned a house moving and cleaning business, but decided to open the store and follow my passion.
“I have always had a passion for collectible toys, so I bit the bullet and opened the store.
“We welcome here all kinds of people from all walks of life who are interested in the products.”
Twice Treasured owner Justin Lee outside his shop.
– Credit: Mick Howes
Although Mr. Lee enjoyed running the store and following his passion, he struggled to attract people to the store for a variety of reasons.
“It was an absolute nightmare when we first entered detention,†Mr. Lee said.
“As a new business, we were not entitled to any government funding and had to continue paying the business rents even though we were closed.
“The blockages have been difficult for us because we are a whole new company.
“It’s hard to make a name for yourself when you’re in and out of blockages. “
Mr. Lee standing next to retro video games.
– Credit: Mick Howes
Competition from department stores and shopping parks also proved to be a success for the store.
Mr. Lee said, “A lot of big retailers sell toys that some think are more appealing.
“There is definitely competition from the large shopping parks now, which often offer customers free parking.
“I encourage anyone to buy local and try to support small businesses like mine that are trying to bring this unique gap to the market.
“Not many people use the main street these days, so they also need some kind of incentive to go out.”
Mr. Lee encouraged people to buy local when he can.
– Credit: Mick Howes
