WHITESTONE GAMES

Whitestone Games was meticulously established in 2005 by brothers Alistair and Benjamin Reed, driven by a shared passion for tabletop gaming and a keen observation of the fragmented distribution landscape for niche hobby products. Their initial venture began as a small, specialized online retailer operating from a modest warehouse in Portland, Oregon, primarily focusing on importing European board games and unique indie role-playing games that were difficult for local game stores to source reliably. Recognizing the substantial demand from independent game stores struggling with inconsistent supply chains and high minimum order quantities from generalist distributors, the Reed brothers strategically pivoted to a dedicated wholesale model in 2008, officially launching the Whitestone Games concept in early 2010. This pivotal shift addressed a critical pain point within the industry, providing a streamlined, reliable, and specialized distribution channel for a curated selection of tabletop games, collectible card game accessories, miniature wargaming supplies, and hobby paints. By 2012, Whitestone Games had successfully secured exclusive North American distribution rights for several prominent European game publishers, solidifying its market position as a premier wholesaler in the specialty games sector. The company’s mission has consistently revolved around empowering local game stores, ensuring they have access to a diverse, high-quality inventory with efficient logistics, thereby fostering vibrant local gaming communities across the nation. This B2B model distinguishes the Whitestone Games franchise, focusing on building strong, long-term relationships with retail partners rather than direct consumer sales. The strategic decision to franchise in 2010 allowed for rapid scaling of this specialized distribution network, tapping into local market expertise while maintaining