Pop culture collectibles sold at Entourage in the Minories off Henley Street make it a unique business
EVERYTHING from a replica chainsaw from the horror film Texas Chainsaw Massacre to cutesy Hello Kitty merchandise is on sale at Entourage.
The emporium of film and cult collectibles is one the newest shops in The Minories, having upped sticks from its former base in Greenhill Street in July.
Owner Jon-Sel Gourkan says he always dreamed of opening a shop since he was a boy but got distracted by an acting career, being a professional footballer and was even a pop star at one point.
He set up Entourage in 2021, and is pleased with how it’s gone and the loyal customers that regularly visit. One of the reasons he began looking for a new location was the frequent anti-social trouble around Greenhill Street.
“I’m so happy to be here because there’s no aggro, it’s central, there is brilliant footfall.
“The Minories is a beautiful community with independent businesses, which is superb. “Everyone is just so friendly, it's endearing.”
Although bigger brands have struggled to survive on the high street, Jon-Sel thinks the future is bright for independents.
“Since Covid, a lot town and cities have suffered, with so many empty buildings,” he continued. “But I think people have had enough of shopping online. They want to go out, they want to see what they’re buying. And so Stratford needs endearing places like The Minories. It’s not all about department stores and chains anymore.
“I feel that independent businesses put more passion into what they’re doing because they care about customers.
“The main thing for me is it’s just a nice community feel and everyone is so supportive.”
Entourage’s customers come from as far as Birmingham and Leamington to see what’s new in the shop, which Jon-Sel also promotes on social media.
“If someone wants something in particular I will find it for them, it’s about building a relationship with your customers.”
Speaking about his stock, Jon-Sel added: “I try and get things in that are different. So I source from independent sellers from Japan, Germany and America. I love my T-shirts, and have lots of anime too.
“Figures and quirky gifts always do well. It’s basically everything that’s involved with pop culture, going back from the 80s to current day. It’s my love, my passion.”
