HobbyTown Success Story
HobbyTown, a franchise established in 1999 by mother and son team Angela Millet and Ryan Wilson in Knoxville, Tennessee, has become a beloved destination for hobby enthusiasts of all ages. With a desire to open their own business, the pair strategically focused on the HobbyTown franchise since the store offers many different products, including toys, radio-controlled (RC) cars, Legos, and model trains, attracting customers ranging from toddlers to grandparents.
Over the years, HobbyTown has successfully navigated economic challenges such as the 2008 recession and leveraged growth opportunities during the early 2020’s because of the pandemic boom with people looking to explore new hobbies. In July 2024, the franchise celebrated a milestone by expanding the square footage of the existing store, supported by strategic financing from Regions Bank and BrightBridge Capital. Regions Bank is a preferred SBA lender.
Financial partnerships have been critical to HobbyTown’s success. The SBA 504 loan program, in particular, allowed the business to purchase property with just 10% down and a 25-year term, transforming rent expenses into equity—a major financial advantage. These investments enabled HobbyTown to expand its workforce, growing from 11 to 14 employees, with plans to hire two more.
Angela and Ryan highlighted the importance of diversifying their product offerings while maintaining a reputation for quality and innovation. They use market research by reviewing their annual sales to understand which products their customers prefer, and consequently, which ones to keep on the shelf. The two also expressed admiration for iconic brands like Lego, which have fostered customer loyalty through strong branding—an approach they hope to emulate as HobbyTown continues to grow.
HobbyTown’s journey is a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and strategic collaboration. Angela Millet and Ryan Wilson have turned challenges into opportunities, laying a solid foundation for continued success. By prioritizing equity building, leveraging market insights, and staying attuned to customer needs, HobbyTown will inspire hobbyists for generations to come.