When the local 
chain video stored shut its doors in Mackenzie in 2010, Lori Watson saw an opportunity to fill the void.
With 7 years of experience with Movie Gallery, including 3 as store manager, Lori definitely understood the gaming and movie rental industry, but explains it still took a lot of courage for her to decide to open a store: “I always knew I wanted to own a business, but I’m not a risk taker so luckily my husband was very supportive and encouraged me to take the risk.”
In addition to her knowledge of the industry, Lori also had valuable connections that enabled her to reduce her opening costs by purchasing display units and equipment from a national video store chain.
Lori is proud that she followed through on her dream and says she enjoys the flexibility she now has to make decisions to better serve her customers. Opening Gamerz Video Den also created jobs for three employees in a community that was struggling through a downturn in the forest industry. As well, the store provides residents with access to both new release and library movie and game rentals…something especially appreciated in a community with unreliable high speed access.
Lori’s advice to future entrepreneurs is to take the workshops provided by Community Futures to help figure out if your plan is feasible before investing too much time and energy into your idea.
