Flashback Toys & Collectibles is part toy store, part time machine - Point/Plover Metro Wire

By Emmy Pinzon

Whether you were a groovy ’70s kid or grew up in the radical ’80s, toys hold a special connection for children and adults of all ages.

The business is tucked away at 3324 Jefferson St., the former home of The Watchman’s Gone restaurant, and before it, the historic Al’s Diner.

Owner Jason Kania founded Flashback Toys & Collectibles in 2022 to tap into nostalgia from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. Kania, a Wausau native, opened his business in Stevens Point in 2022.

“I loved He-Man as a kid,” Kania said. “But unfortunately, all of my stuff was thrown away after a certain point. I noticed that many people have experienced the same thing, and coming to my store brings back those nostalgic feelings for my customers.”

Kania boasts displays of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles memorabilia, action figures, and other collectibles.

There are a few ways the toys are obtained, including auctions, flea markets, and trade-ins. Kania travels across the state to build the collection, and some of his regular customers assist with the process.

“I have a few customers that scout things out for me. If they see something interesting, they’ll send me pictures, and if it’s something that would be good for the store, I offer them store credit,” Kania said. “Trade-ins are how I get most of the items.”

Kania does not currently purchase items from customers but hopes to in the future.

“If you want to collect toys, don’t limit yourself,” Kania said. “There are so many niches out there, and people may think there are stigmas about their interests. I say just go for it regardless.”

Flashback Toys & Collectibles is not only a store but also a place to discuss different toys and elements of collecting as a hobby.

“People come in and talk to me for hours on end about this stuff, and I view my store as a meeting place for anyone interested in collecting,” Kania said.

Flashback Toys & Collectibles is open Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. at 3324 Jefferson St. in Stevens Point.