TAMPA, Fla. — Inside Strangecat Toys in Tampa, Luke Mott searches for the perfect Christmas gift for his girlfriend.
“I’m shopping for Sunny Angels. They’re going viral all over the place,” Mott said with three different models in his hand.
This is a brick-and-mortar store Mott is thankful for because it sells niche collectible items.
Owner Cory Rutter has run Strangecat Toys for 10 years, and said 2025 has been challenging.
The difficulties started with tariffs, which continue to affect the small business.
“Big time,” said Rutter. “Like, all of our prices had to go up by 40 to 50%.”
Then the government shutdown happened, which Rutter said dropped their sales by 40%.
Another challenge this year has been more and more shops like Strangecat Toys opening in the U.S.
Rutter said brands from China are opening storefronts.
“Like Pop Mart, and I even see these types of toys at Walmart and Target now,” said Rutter. “They are about $10 to $15 more than what we sell them (toys) at. So who would have thought Walmart was more expensive than the niche retail shop?”
Even on Monday, business looked to be booming. At times, the store was packed with people making holiday purchases.
For Mott, buying online was not an option.
“They’re great,” said Mott. “I know that ordering them online is 10 days to ship, so I’m really glad they have them in stock here.”
The sounds of purchases made making the holiday brighter for this small business.