New Town Entrepreneur Brian Trull Sells PokeNerds in Seven-Figure Deal

In a story that blends nostalgia, innovation, and entrepreneurial grit, New Town founder Brian Trull has successfully exited his business, PokeNerds, in a seven-figure acquisition—marking a major milestone not only for the local business community but for the broader Pokémon collectibles industry.

What began as a passion project quickly evolved into a regional phenomenon. PokeNerds, a Pokémon-focused retail and e-commerce company, carved out a unique space in a rapidly growing market by combining traditional card collecting with modern digital engagement. Over the course of seven years, Trull transformed the brand into a beloved destination for fans of all ages, culminating in a deal that reflects both the strength of the business and the timing of the market.

“We had some amazing times in the early days with our streams,” Trull shared while discussing the acquisition. “It was a brand-new concept in the space, and it brought fun, excitement, and community to Pokémon fans all over the country—and sometimes the world.”

That sense of community extended beyond the screen. The PokeNerds retail store in St. Peters became a hub for local collectors and families, known for its packed events, trading nights, and welcoming atmosphere. It drew visitors from across the region and gave fans of all ages a place to connect.

“It’s one of my proudest accomplishments,” Trull said of the store. “We created a place for Pokémon fans of all ages—but particularly children and parents—to call their own.”

The company’s growth coincided with a surge in global interest in Pokémon cards, but PokeNerds differentiated itself through brand and experience—combining e-commerce, live content, and in-person events into a cohesive model.

The acquisition represents a strategic exit after a rapid rise. “We compressed what normally takes 20–30 years into just seven,” Trull noted.

Despite the success, the decision to sell was not without emotion. In his announcement, Trull described the moment as “bittersweet,” reflecting on the relationships, memories, and experiences built along the way. From early streaming days to packed store events, the journey was defined as much by people as by profit.

Trull is stepping away from day-to-day operations to focus on family and explore future ventures, including early-stage creative projects.

“Thank you to all who joined me on this journey, or quietly watched from afar,” he said, “Thank you to my wife, and all the employees over the years.”

For aspiring entrepreneurs, the story of PokeNerds offers a clear takeaway: it is possible to turn passion into a profitable business—and even a successful exit. Trull’s journey demonstrates the power of identifying emerging trends, building community, and executing quickly.

“If you’ve ever had the dream to try and make money with something you love,” said Trull, “I just showed you it’s entirely possible.”

As the dust settles on the acquisition, one thing is certain: PokeNerds has left a lasting mark on both its local community and the broader collectibles space. For Brian Trull, the next chapter is just beginning… and you are encouraged to follow along with him at briantrull.com.