A brand-new comic book and merchandise shop, Koolthings, has opened its doors on Gillingham’s High Street, offering fans of comics and pop culture a vibrant new place to shop and connect.

The store is owned by James Orgar, a well-known local driving professional who has spent the past 18 years working as a driving instructor in Dorset. James is the founder of 2nd2None Driving School, where he teaches learner drivers as well as training new driving instructors and HGV drivers. While he says that Koolthings marks an ‘exciting new chapter’, James is currently balancing the shop alongside his established driving school.

For James, the new venture combines business with one of his great passions. A lifelong fan, he says he has always loved pop culture and wanted to create a space that reflects that enthusiasm. Koolthings stocks comic books and a growing range of pop culture merchandise, with plans to become a welcoming hub for collectors, fans, and families alike.

‘I’ve always loved pop culture,” says James. ‘Opening Koolthings is about sharing that passion and bringing something fun and different to the high street.’

The shop, opposite Lloyds Bank, is very much a family-run business, with James working alongside his stepdaughter, Chloe, who helps run the store and serve customers. Together, they hope to build a friendly, inclusive environment in which ‘everyone feels welcome’.

Looking to the future, James has clear ideas for how the business will grow. As the shop develops, he hopes to expand the product range to include more Pokémon items, Funko Pops, high-end collectible figures such as Hot Toys, and LEGO, giving customers an even wider choice of popular and collectible products.

The opening of Koolthings adds to the increasing number of independent businesses looking to revitalise the High Street. With strong local roots, a clear vision for growth, and an owner driven by genuine passion, the aim is for Koolthings to become a popular destination for pop culture fans in Gillingham and across Dorset.

More information can be found at: https://www.koolthings.co.uk/about