The Television and Movie Store (TVM) in Wantage has officially closed its doors permanently. The last day of operation for the collectibles retailer, located in Kings Walk, Limborough Road, was Sunday, January 26. Established in 2017, TVM specialized in new and retro video gaming, Lego, Pokemon, Star Wars, and classic toys, and it expanded its sales to eBay in 2023.
James Goodman, chairman of Wantage Chamber of Commerce, expressed his sentiments before the closure: “Wantage Chamber of Commerce is sad to see a valued retailer having to close its premises in the town. Local support is especially important for all our wonderful businesses in Wantage, and the old adage ‘use it or lose it’ has never been more appropriate. We have a great range of small, medium, and large businesses in Wantage, and with the support of the public, we can all thrive in 2025.”
On the shop’s final day, manager Hayley Blanshard-Whitton shared her thoughts: “Today will be my last shift in the shop, and although I am sad to be leaving this wonderful place with the most awesome customers, these past couple of years have been an amazing experience filled with laughter, joy, and lifelong friendships made. I am so grateful to have worked with the most loveliest and hardworking team of staff and volunteers, who even through these tough times have powered on with smiles on their faces. A massive thank you to our team for being the absolute best. Everyone will be looking for new jobs, so if you or anyone you know are looking for new staff, please bear them in mind. I couldn’t recommend these guys enough.”
Colleague Lauren Drinkel added: “I am going to miss this little shop and the TVM family we’ve created beyond words. Hayley and Ryan have been so incredible as managers with the cards we’ve been dealt. Jasmine is a brand new best friend I’ve made on the way. The kiddos, Miles and Eden, have been a true delight to work with. That’s not even counting the beautiful souls I’ve met in our customer base. My mental health was never better than working here. I managed to do things I never thought I would be able to. Thank you everyone for everything. Live long and prosper.”
Lauren explained the reasons behind the closure: “Rent is going up. National insurance is going up. The cost of living is going up. The shop is often busy, yes, but we aren’t making enough money to be able to stay open. This wasn’t a decision made lightly. Realistically, without TVM we should have closed two years back.”
While the closure of TVM marks the end of an era for the town, local businesses continue to add vibrancy to Wantage. You can support these enterprises by exploring local activities or creating a business profile through the Wantage directory. [Browse the directory + events](https://wantage.com/directory/) or [Submit a directory listing](https://wantage.com/submit-listing/). Enable local growth by participating in the community and helping businesses thrive.
For updates and more information about community events or business opportunities in Wantage, consider engaging with local organizations and initiatives.
