Spotlight

POST LOCKDOWN URBAN VILLAGE LDN HAS BEEN SHINING A LIGHT ON A DIFFERENT FULHAM BUSINESS EACH MONTH. IN THIS ISSUE WE TALK TO OMAR KKHAN, FOUNDER OF QUIRKY GADGETS

Quirky Gadgets (823 Fulham Road) opened in 2015 and hasn’t looked back despite having to adapt and change to survive like many other small businesses during these unprecedented times. Omar Khan’s magical and quirky emporium is well loved by Fulham locals and has a celebrity following including Jeremy Clarkson and Simon Cowell; both of whom have visited the store.

We asked Omar about the reasons for his leap into becoming an independent retailer and why he choose Fulham. “One reason to start a business is so your job can be something that thrills you. Most people would love to have work that centers on something they care deeply about. I thought it was time to break out my inner passion and I opened Quirky Gadgets in Fulham because I saw an opportunity, a niche market that would serve residents of all ages in the area. I would say I’ve found a way to turn my hobby into my profession. I can speak about every product as I source them from almost all corners of the globe, I have friends of all nationalities and we deliver happiness”.

We watched with interest as Omar kept his business going by quickly creating and on line option. He helped his customers find what they were looking for to cope with the boredom of lockdown and to conjure up the perfect gifts for customers celebrating special occasions or buying for family and loved ones. We saw him pound the streets of Fulham delivering orders personally every day. We asked Omar how COVID has affected his business “Lots of uncertainty. I started a digital shop during the lockdown. It helped me sell lots of puzzles, kept me afloat, however we are not digital first so I turned the website off after the lockdown and customers have started returning to my Aladdin's cave”.

After asking Omar as a small business owner how he was feeling in the here and now he said “we need clarity for planning like every business, however I am sure, if we keep the positive vibe, that things will be better than pre Covid. One good thing that may arise after Covid will be lots of love for the survival Businesses”. So next time you’re thinking of ordering from Amazon think of local retailers and think can Quirky Gadgets help? We know Omar is always happy to hear from his customers and to lend a hand where he can to help you source what you’re looking for. As Omar says “When you buy from Amazon you put smiles on already fat cat faces, when you shop small you put a smile on a worried face and food on a table”.

“Amazing shop with plenty of different amazing gadgets and products all of the highest quality! The owner is super nice and knows all about his products and can give you great advice on what to buy. Also a great place to buy birthday presents or just something fun for you or your house! All in all the best gadget shop in the world in my opinion" - Victor