D20 Battleground, Alberton and The Big Bang Shop, uMhlanga have officially achieved WPN Premium status, a sought-after accolade for stores that sell Magic: The Gathering trading cards and paraphernalia, and host events.
Philip Galliford of Solarpop says: “We’re incredibly proud to congratulate D20 Battleground, Alberton and The Big Bang Shop, uMhlanga on officially achieving WPN Premium status – a milestone that represents the very highest standard within the Wizards Play Network.”
Best in Class Experience
To become a premium Wizards Play Network (WPN) store, retailers must go beyond the basics of hosting Magic: The Gathering events and selling product – they need to create a best-in-class experience for their customers and player community. This includes offering a welcoming, well-designed space with quality furnishings, consistent event scheduling, strong community engagement and excellent customer service. Premium status is awarded by Wizards of the Coast to stores that demonstrate exceptional commitment to growing the game, fostering inclusive environments, and delivering a polished, professional retail experience that keeps customers coming back.
Adrian van Rensburg, owner of D20 Battleground, says that it has taken a decade to become a premium store. “For me the accolade is enormous. It elevates the trading card game hobby, and personally, I’m even more passionate about the hobby now. The group effort and support from the community in elevating the store has been phenomenal – customers even helped me put up shelving,” he says. “I really feel like I’ve earned it. There hasn’t been a premium store in about twenty years and the criteria now are stricter, it’s more difficult now. My intention is to be the best store in the country. I want to offer more and give the best service. Being recognised as a premium store affirms that I’m moving towards these goals. I’m thankful to my staff and my customers. I love the environment and the community and the people, and I’m so grateful to be doing what I do every day.”
High Level Events
The accolade is also a reflection of the community. It means a lot to players that the hobby is growing and there are more events. The Premium stores will receive more assistance around high-level events with exciting promos for players and incentives for new people to join.
Juteen Agu of the Big Bang Shop in uMhlanga – the other store in South Africa to be given WPN premium level, is equally excited. “The accolade is great for us and great for the community. It goes to show that the community keeps showing up and supporting the store. Magic: The Gathering is growing and so is the fan base. To be recognised like this is exciting because it means that we have met the high standards that Wizards of the Coast are looking for.”
About Magic: The Gathering
Magic: The Gathering (MTG) is a trading card game that launched in 1993. It blends strategy, fantasy lore, and deck-building in a way that has captivated players for decades. With thousands of unique cards and constantly evolving formats, Magic offers endless ways to play, whether casually with friends or competitively at tournaments. Its mechanics and imaginative artwork make it a favourite among collectors and gamers alike, cementing its status as a cultural icon in the TCG world.
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