Macclesfield's last standing trophy shop looking for new operator as owner retires
By Ryan Parker
8th Nov 2023 | Local News
The retiring owner of Macclesfield's last trophy shop standing has recently listed it on the property market, desperate to "protect" its legacy.
Olympus Trophies and Gifts, 40 Duke Street, has been put up for offers in the region of £50,000.
Operated by Macclesfield resident, Sam Baker, for the past 23 years, the owner is now looking for someone to take over trophy duties.
"Most of our customers are volunteers and I am desperate to protect that niceness, especially in the world we live in," said Mr Baker.
Olympus Trophies and Gifts dates back to 1978, and is the last store of its kind for miles.
The shop owner has had a successful year of trade, but is now looking hand over the reins of the business and enjoy retirement with his new canal boat.
Mr Baker told Macclesfield Nub News: "It has been great doing nice things for nice people over the years."
"I have learnt if you haven't got the item a person wants, you may have something they like.
"A lot of people come in with no idea of what they want, others come in knowing exactly what they want.
"That is part of the joy of it. You get the unexpected in here."
"I have lost two brothers in the last two years. I have also worked for 46 years and I am tired.
"I have bought myself a canal boat that is waiting for me and my dog to ride on it."
Mr Baker understands what it takes to run a small business like Olympus Trophies and Gifts.
The departing shop owner said: "To run this shop, you need to be inquisitive to find out what people want. You also need to be gentle, hospitable, kind and considerate."
"Some people are coming in for losses, some are coming in for wins, some people are coming in for other people's wins.
"A lot of mums come in for their kids and grandparents come in to award medals to their grandkids for doing really well. You get a variety.
Mr Baker has enjoyed serving his customers over the years, meeting people from a variety of sporting backgrounds.
Perhaps most notably, Olympus Trophies and Gifts has made Manchester United's 'Player of the Month' trophy for the last nine years.
The ex-serviceman added: "I would love to say a massive thank you to all my customers over the years."
"I have had such a nice time here. I have been very lucky the vast majority of customers and I have gotten on well.
"There are no other trophy shops like this in Macclesfield. They have closed down in the likes of Buxton, Leek, and some in Stockport.
"I am the last man standing. There is a large catchment area for it. This last year has been the most successful in my 23 here.
"During COVID lots of places closed down, and I am the only one doing it in this area anymore.
"For anyone wanting to take this opportunity on, they need to understand about being a small business.
"All of our customers are delightful people, there is still money to be made here."
Macclesfield: To find more about the sale, please click HERE.
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