On Nov. 5, Hattiesburg’s Turtle Creek Mall got a new anime store. Many anime fans are excited about this new store because it will allow them to have a physical place to examine and buy high quality merchandise.
“It is a great way to see what new products are available to the public,” said Allison Smith, the president of Southern Miss’s Anime Club. “As well as [to] get the opinion of others.”
There were some concerns about High-Five Anime setting up in Turtle Creek, as many believe malls are becoming outdated. However, others disagree.
“I feel like it was somewhat of a good decision. Hopefully, it will bring more business to the mall,” said Smith.
High-Five Anime, owned by CEO Brandon Willis, initially started under another name, Blushies. The store began in 2018 as a kiosk at the mall in Lake Charles, Louisiana. At first, they only sold merch at anime cons, but a little before COVID hit, Willis decided to open a store. He now has four locations, which they have been slowly expanding due to COVID.
“We have four stores, one in Louisiana, two in Texas and one in Mississippi,” Willis said. “We also have a contract for 92 more stores with the CBL properties, so if there is a CBL property anywhere, I can open a store there.”
When Willis found out about the Anime Club at Southern Miss, he said they are welcome to come by and check out the latest merchandise and interact with others in the anime community.
“Come, if you all want, we could figure something out. We are very community-based,” said Willis.
Willis also said that customers can make a product suggestion on their Discord at HFA Hattiesburg. They hope customers will communicate with them through Discord to cater to both new and old shows, not leaving anyone out.
“We want our community to talk to us. So, tell us what you would like to see,” said Willis.
Not only do they have four locations, but customers may also encounter High-Five Anime at their local anime or Comic-Con.For more information about High-Five Anime, visit their Facebook page at High-Five Anime or visit their store online at highfiveanime.shop. The store is located right across from Hot Topic near the food court at Turtle Creek Mall.
