Retailer Forbidden Planet International has confirmed it will open its doors in Norwich on Saturday, 2 May 2026. The new branch will occupy the former BrightHouse premises on St Stephens Street, a significant 2,500 sq ft site that marks a major expansion for the brand into East Anglia.
The opening is strategically timed to coincide with Free Comic Book Day, the international celebration of the medium. By launching on the busiest day of the industry calendar, the store aims to capitalise on peak footfall and local interest, offering the first 100 customers exclusive goody bags. The launch is expected to create 10 new jobs and provide a dedicated hub for comics, roleplaying games, and pop-culture collectables.
The Return of Si Pittman
A notable detail for the Norwich gaming community is the appointment of Si Pittman as the store’s manager. Si Pittman is a familiar figure in the local scene, having previously owned Regen Games in Anglia Square.
The closure of Regen Games in 2023 followed a series of persistent flooding issues and the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the redevelopment of the Anglia Square site. For many local enthusiasts, Si Pittman’s transition from an independent shop owner to leading a major retail branch ensures continuity for the city’s geek culture, bringing a familiar local face to the national chain’s expansion.
Si Pittman, Manager at Forbidden Planet, said in a statement:
Forbidden Planet is such a vibrant brand and a prestigious addition to the city centre. As a Pokémon and anime guy, with a taste for indie comics, I’ve reached peak happiness! The range of merchandise will be unbeatable and I’m looking forward to the new store becoming a hub for many different communities.”
A Strategic Foothold in the City Centre
The choice of St Stephens Street places the retailer in a high-traffic corridor, distinct from the smaller, tucked-away locations of existing independent shops like Athena Games. While the stock list includes heavy hitters like Marvel, Star Wars, and Pokémon, the inclusion of “blind box” brands such as Sonny Angels, Smsikis, and POPMART suggests a pivot toward the growing lifestyle and “art-toy” demographic currently prevalent among students at the nearby University of the Arts Norwich.
Andrew Staff, Managing Director of Forbidden Planet International, said in a statement:
Opening in Norwich is a fantastic opportunity for us. There’s a real sense of creativity and enthusiasm in the city, and we’re excited to bring something a bit different to the high street. This new store represents an important step in the continued growth of Forbidden Planet.”
Launch Day Details
The grand opening will begin at 10:00, though queues are expected to form from 08:00. To encourage community participation, any customer arriving in cosplay will receive a 10% storewide discount for the day. A £100 gift voucher will also be awarded to the individual judged to have the best costume.
With Free Comic Book Day overlapping, the store has promised additional comic giveaways throughout Saturday, ensuring the launch serves as a broader celebration of the hobby rather than a mere retail opening.
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