Chimp's Comix Completes ExpansionChimp's Comix owner Nick Kelley follows a simple business model.
"If it's a hobby of mine then I carry it," said Kelley. "I'm not going to carry something I know nothing about."
While Kelley's interests have grown so has Chimp's Comix.
When Kelley first opened the store 13 years ago, it was just 1,920 square feet.
An expansion six years ago increased the size and now the store is 5,760 square feet of comics, video games, DVDs and collectibles since another expansion was completed last weekend.
Now Chimp's, 919 E. Winona Avenue, takes up most of the storefront space at its location it shares with Comcast.
Kelley said that his store has more space and inventory than similar places in larger markets like South Bend and Fort Wayne.
On average, Chimp's houses around 100,000 comics.
Kelley said the current best sellers in his store are Batman and Green Lantern.
Some of those comics now are part of an all-ages section that includes Disney-related comics and those more age appropriate for younger kids.
With a sluggish economy and niche stores like Chimp's struggling, Kelley said he has been able to remain successful by having a loyal group of customers as well as competitive prices.
Used DVDs sell for about a quarter of the price of new ones at Chimp's and there is also a wide array of video games and systems.
From the original Nintendo to PS3, Kelley buys and sells games and consoles.
"It's cheap, family entertainment," said Kelley. "And that's what people are looking for."
The expansion also allows for more space for Chimp's Magic The Gathering Tournaments.
Kelley said before they could fit a dozen people in comfortably now if they need to they can fit 32 people "uncomfortably".
Chimp's is open Monday and Tuesday from 4 to 6 p.m., Wednesday through Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 11 to 7 p.m.
Chimp's is closed on Sundays.
For more information call 574-268-2274, visit chimpscomix.com or find Chimp's Comix on Facebook.
