The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
The geeks strike back: Stormtroopers pop in for Union Street shop
The opening of Geek Retreat – a new gaming cafe and geek merchandise shop in Aberdeen – received a lot of attention during launch day.
At 9.30am on Saturday, Union Street seemed fairly quiet after a long few days of stormy weather.
It was not until a few minutes before 10am that a small crowd of people, some looking like they had just stepped off a film set, gathered around the new purple addition to the Granite City.
The first 20 people in line received free “geekthemed” milkshakes of their choice and as the shop filled, passers-by joined them to see what the fuss was about.
Part of a UK-wide Geek Retreat network, the shop and cafe was set up by enthusiast and ex-marine superintendent Scott Leslie.
“I’ve been nervous from my emotional investment as much as my financial investment that I’ve put into this business this year,” said the 34-year-old.
“I’ve came from the oil and gas industry and shipping background and this is now the proof in the pudding over the huge investment I’ve made for Aberdeen.
“It’s very satisfying to see the turnout so far.”
As he spoke, a few more people come through the doors in costume.
Scott added: “You can have a boring nine to five office job but when you get faced with a Mandalorian and a Commando Elite in the morning, it is a far more interesting start to the day.”
Geek Retreat is at 177 Union Street, which Scott picked as he thought it would have “good footfall” – particularly with Union Square and the revamp of Union Terrace Gardens on the corner.
“And it’s definitely been demonstrated,” he said.
After starting the marketing campaign online, Scott said the Facebook page received more than 2,000 likes.
He feels it is further evidence Aberdeen has a “sustained geek culture” and the shop can lift a high street showing a lot of “To Let” signs.
Becky Morrison, one of the first to receive a free milkshake, said they loved the excuse to dress up in a costume.
“It’s definitely going to be a grand central for people just to hang out,” said Becky, 25.
Stewart Niven, 23, was first through the door. “It’s cool to see a place where you can actually go and play strategic board games, card games and stuff because there isn’t really anything like that in Aberdeen.”
The store will be open seven days a week with various opening times.
For more information on Geek Retreat and what events are happening, visit the shop’s Facebook page.