Who Is Gary Grant? The Toy Shop Boss Who Gave His £Multi-Million Business to His Staff

August 2025 – Gary Grant, the man behind The Entertainer toy shop chain, has handed over his entire company to his employees. The 66-year-old founder and executive chairman has put 100% ownership of the business into an employee ownership trust, giving around 1,900 staff members a direct stake in the retailer’s future.

Grant started the business with his wife, Catherine, back in 1981, opening their first store in Amersham. Over 44 years, they grew from one small shop into 160 stores across the UK, making The Entertainer a major high street brand.

A Leader With Strong Values

Gary Grant is known for running his company based on his Christian faith. The Entertainer does not open on Sundays and avoids selling toys linked to supernatural or occult themes. The business also donates 10% of profits to charity each year.

His loyalty to his team is just as strong. Many employees have been with the company for more than 20 years. Grant’s decision to hand over ownership is his way of thanking them, giving staff a share of profits and a voice in decision-making.

Staff Praise the Move

Workers at The Entertainer welcomed the announcement.

• Jess Payne, an employee for 10 years, said the decision is “really brave and exciting” and makes staff feel their opinions truly matter.

• Lee Adlam, another long-serving member of the team, called it “a typical Gary thing to do,” describing him as a leader who always puts employees first.

Succession Plan Already in Place

Two years ago, Gary and Catherine Grant appointed their first external CEO – Andrew Murphy, formerly of John Lewis. After the transfer is complete in September, Murphy and his senior team will run the business.

Murphy says he feels “a huge responsibility” to carry on Grant’s legacy. While he admits employee-owned businesses face challenges, such as less access to outside funding, he’s confident in The Entertainer’s strong finances and lack of long-term debt.

Gary Grant’s Next Chapter

After stepping back, Grant will focus on family, charity, and personal projects. He has ten grandchildren, a new narrowboat, and plans to raise £4 million to turn a building into a community hub.

“It’s the right time,” Grant says. “I’m leaving the business in great health, and it will continue to go from strength to strength.”