Gadgets and Goodies expands

STEVENS POINT - Since opening earlier this year on March 1, Gadgets and Goodies in Plover has increased its offerings, and now hopes to give back to the community. “We’ve now expanded to have at least four times the amount of candy that we originally did, which is a radical change,” said Jacob Brandt, owner of Gadgets and Goodies.
Brandt explains that his original idea for the store was more of a Radio Shack with some candy on the side, but over time, community feedback changed the store’s focus. “We have evolved a lot since opening,” said Brandt. “The whole idea of the imported candy store just exploded. It was unbelievably popular with the community.”
When you stop by the store, you’ll find the shelves stocked with imported candies, chocolates, drinks, and snacks, as well as toys and other trinkets. Brandt notes that Dubai chocolate bars are one of the store’s most popular products. In addition, he also imports cookies and candies from the UK, Milka chocolate from Germany, uniquely flavored chips from Japan, and more.
After being open for almost six months, Brandt reflects on how the business has been doing so far. “There’s been ups and downs, but I’ve been learning what’s popular and what’s not,” said Brandt. “People have come out in droves to support us, and I can’t thank the community enough for it.”
Giving back to the community is exactly what Brandt hopes to focus on going forward. Every month, 5% of all item sales are given to local nonprofits. “It’s not just about us, it’s about how we can serve the community better,” said Brandt.

“This fall, to kick off the school year, we’ll be giving out free root beer floats on Labor Day weekend,” said Brandt. Stop by to receive your free float and check out the store’s newest imported treats.
As for what the future holds for Gadgets and Goodies? “We’re hoping to do more partnerships with community events, such as participating in art fairs,” said Brandt. Watch for them as they do pop-ups around the local community and throughout central Wisconsin.
“This year we’re going to be picking up the ornament side of the business more as well,” said Brandt. “We are doing a pop-up of my grandma’s old store, Irene’s Christmas Corner, here in the shop.” As Christmastime approaches, stop in to see their selection of imported German nutcrackers, ornaments, and smoker figurines.
Around Christmastime and Easter, the store will also carry a larger assortment of smaller candies that can be used as stocking-stuffers and holiday candy. Watch the store’s Facebook and Instagram pages for their newly-launched ‘Chip Thursdays’, where Brandt posts a weekly video clip trying a new flavor of unique, imported chips.