The Entertainer, Britain’s largest independent toy retailer, is making history in 2025. This summer, the family-run business, founded in Amersham in 1981, announced the transfer of ownership to its 1,900 employees. The move is one of the most talked-about corporate developments in the UK and promises to reshape both retail culture and High Street community spirit for years to come.
Historic Ownership Announcement
Gary Grant and his wife Catherine opened their first store at just 23. Over four decades, they grew The Entertainer from a local toy shop into an empire with more than 160 stores across the UK, Jersey, Isle of Man, and franchises in Asia. The brand is rooted in the UK, trading under the slogan “Britain’s Toy Shop,” and is the parent company of Early Learning Centre and Addo Play, beloved by families nationwide.
In August 2025, the Grants declared a groundbreaking shift: instead of selling the firm to private investors, or passing it to their children, they set up an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). This structure gives staff a share in the profits and a say in running the company. Every colleague can now benefit directly from the brand’s success and influence policies, ensuring that the original family values endure as it continues to expand.
What Does Employee Ownership Mean?
From September, The Entertainer’s staff will officially become beneficiaries of the EOT. A Colleague Advisory Board is being established, giving employees meaningful involvement in shaping the business. Employees are eligible for tax-free bonuses linked to annual profits, with the possibility of “real rewards” from 2027 as the new ownership model matures.
Former chief executive Gary Grant said, “We would have been very apprehensive about selling to a business that holds a completely different set of values compared to those we’ve established over the last 44 years. This arrangement is advantageous for everyone we employ.” Current CEO Andrew Murphy, formerly of John Lewis Partnership, will lead the next chapter, underlining that employee ownership is a growing trend and could be the future of the High Street.
Financial Health and Expansion
In its latest financial report, The Entertainer posted pre-tax profits of £6.7million for the year ending January 2024, demonstrating steady growth despite industry volatility. The majority of its revenue is still generated in the Christmas season, reaffirming its vital place in the festive shopping landscape.
Stores have expanded rapidly, with more than 1,000 concessions inside major retailers like Tesco, Matalan and M&S. A partnership with Tesco now sees toys sold in over 850 supermarket branches, making it easier than ever for families to shop popular brands such as Barbie, Lego and Hot Wheels. Recent years have also seen record sales through digital channels, cementing The Entertainer as a well-loved online presence with TheToyShop.com.
Community Values and Employment
Unique among major chains, The Entertainer is closed on Sundays, reflecting the Christian values of the founding family. It also donates 10% of annual profits to charity, supporting children’s causes and local initiatives. Nearly 400 employees have worked for the company for over ten years, and about 50 have clocked up twenty-plus years of service—proof of its positive workplace culture.
The move to employee ownership is a significant milestone, and experts believe it will strengthen morale, promote greater loyalty and help secure independent High Street stores against the pressures of chain consolidation and online retail competition.
Challenges and Industry Impact
Retail is facing unprecedented challenges, from government policy changes to shipping disruptions. Earlier in 2025, plans to open new shops and hire more staff were paused after an increase in National Insurance contributions for employers. Despite these obstacles, The Entertainer remains free of long-term debt and is not seeking outside investment at present, allowing for measured growth without external pressure.
The shift to employee-owned businesses, championed by groups like the Employee Ownership Association, is seen as a pathway to revitalising the High Street. Other brands, including John Lewis and Richer Sounds, have pioneered similar models in the UK, with The Entertainer’s scale now making it a flagship example for others to follow.
Looking Forward
For the UK public, The Entertainer combines nostalgia and modern retail strategy. It offers classic toys and new brands, coordinates with major supermarket chains, and supports local communities. As it enters a new era, the business will be led by the people who know it best—its employees. This landmark shift is set to deepen the company’s roots in British culture and inspire confidence among families, retail analysts and local shoppers.
Closing on a reflective note, the founder Gary Grant plans to spend time with his grandchildren and charitable activities, leaving behind a business built not only for profit but for people and purpose. With this, The Entertainer sets a bold example, proving that British retail can be both innovative and steadfastly community-driven.
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