Stateline Video Games, one of our newest tenants, has been open on the Lower Level across from American Eagle for just over six months. They buy, sell, and trade retro and modern video games, as well as gaming accessories and video game consoles ranging from the Atari to the PS5. They carry unique and hard to find gaming items that customers may not have seen in 20-30 years. Stateline Video Games also offers repair services, as well as gaming tournaments and events.
Frank Bond, the owner of Stateline Video Games and a native of western Massachusetts, founded the company 14 years ago. We inquired as to how he came up with the concept. “My father was laid off from his job when I was young. He supported our family selling secondhand items at flea markets and I would be by his side helping him. He taught me the greatest skill in life, how to take $1 and turn it into $2. After I graduated high school, I applied that skill to one of my passions, video games, and began the journey to where I am today.” Frank explained.
In the spring of 2021, Frank opened his 3rd location at Holyoke Mall. When asked why he chose Holyoke Mall to open a shop, Frank stated, “We were looking to increase foot traffic and exposure, and the Holyoke Mall was one of the best opportunities to do so.”
Frank is very involved in the local community. Stateline Video Games participated in the Extra Life Gaming Marathon. They have also sponsored events and sports teams at local schools. Stateline has also organized a number of free family-friendly events, including gaming exhibits and, most recently, a Halloween Costume contest. They intend to broaden their community outreach even further in 2022!
“Make sure you’re passionate about what you want to do in life,” Frank advises anyone thinking about starting a business. If you are truly passionate about something, you will always be able to monetize it and make a living from it. Allow your passion to be your primary focus, rather than money, which will come with time. Because if you love what you do, you won’t consider it work.”
Visit www.statelinegames.com for more information on their products, services and events. You can also follow Stateline on Instagram at @statelinevideogames or Facebook at @statelinevideogames.
