After trading as Angling Direct Lincoln for 18 months the store's Grand Opening was nothing short of spectacular, with one of the largest turn outs we have ever had. Saturday 9th June in sunny Lincolnshire was the setting for an awesome day. Even from as early as 6:30am there were people queuing outside the shop. Whether they were lured by the fully stocked shop, free goody bags, or the immense guest list of angling superstars, who knows, but it was great to see so much enthusiasm, especially after all the hard work from the staff team.
The day started with Wayne Glossop (all round character and store manager) making an emotional speech before opening the doors at 8am. The store was flooded, and before long the queue to pay was almost out of the door.
It was fair to say everyone was taken aback by the number of people in store, with Mark Pitchers saying “it’s the most people I've ever seen at a store open day.” With goody bags flying out, and with various angling celebrities offering information, the atmosphere was buzzing. A huge thank you to all the goody bag contributors; Nash, Mainline, RidgeMonkey, Guru, Avid, Preston Innovations, Advanta, Shimano and Daiwa.
As the day drew on, the traffic of customers continued. The day was supported so well by both local and anglers from further afield, it was overwhelming.
In store we had the Daiwa dream team of Owen Thompson, Bob Roberts and Will Raison who gave information on all aspects of angling, as well as the latest Daiwa products. They even ran their own guess the weight competition, which was very popular in store.
The Nash boys included James Massey, Max Hendry and legendary carper Julian Cundiff. They were a mine of information (and free samples) on all things terminal tackle and bait, showcasing some exciting new products coming to Nash and Angling Direct soon.
We had our Guru and Maver teams in store, helping anglers with everything from pole elastication to mainline and pellet preparation, not to mention some great match tips for local venues. Maver even brought their own free goody bags.
Shimano was represented by main man Ian Smith and predator expert Matt Boast. Two more knowledgeable and helpful chaps you will likely never meet. Ian talked through some awesome reels, including the new Shimano Mag, due for release very soon.
John Kneebone from Mainline Baits was in store, launching the brand new The Link bait, which took the place by storm, in fact I think he may have sold out the store's stock!
Trakker went all out, and setu p a show style display outside in the car park, advertising to the world their epic bivvy/brolly and accessories range, as well as the Spod & Marker rods; huge well done Tom Gibson and Gaz Hood.
Last but by no means least, Mr Carpy Mark Pitchers was in store talking all things bait with CC Moore, as well as bringing in some “that’s carpy’ mugs for everyone to buy. He was his usual witty self, and had people flocking for selfies (including some staff!)
Overall, the day was a roaring success. A huge thank you to everyone who attended, and to the staff for putting on such a great day. If you missed it, look out for the next Angling Direct Grand Opening, and make sure you come along, and bring the family, too.
