Oliver’s Card House opens new Downtown location

The Chamber joined community members for the grand opening and the store’s first official “Trade Day” in its new downtown space—an exciting milestone for a business that has rapidly become a local hub.

“Congratulations on officially opening in your new location, and welcome to the Chamber’s membership family,” said Amanda Roberts, Membership Engagement Specialist with the Chamber. “We’re excited to introduce co-owners Jared Merriman and Matt Harris, who are bringing something truly unique to downtown Batesville.”

What began as casual trades arranged on Facebook grew rapidly. After a card show in Conway, co-owners Jared Merriman and Matt Harris discovered strong regional demand for trading cards, selling more than expected from their small inventory.

“Batesville hadn’t had a dedicated card store in probably ten or fifteen years,” said Merriman. “I remember going to a place called The Round Table when I was a kid, and the memories that came from that. We wanted to bring something like that back to this community.”

The business was officially launched in October at Tomahawk Chops on Main Street. The concept rapidly gained traction. As customer interest surged, the need for a larger, standalone location became clear.

Now in their new storefront, Oliver’s Card House specializes in trading card products, featuring Pokémon, sports cards, and One Piece, with plans to expand. The shop’s main services include consignment, card grading assistance through PSA and Beckett, and a rotating inventory that ranges from vintage packs to premium collector cards.

Beyond retail, Oliver’s Card House serves as a community gathering place.

“One of my dreams was to have a space where people could just hang out—watch Pokémon on TV, trade cards, and build community,” Merriman said. “That’s what we’re creating here.”

The store hosts “Trade Days” every other weekend, inviting collectors of all ages to bring their cards, connect, and share their passion. These events have become a highlight, bringing together enthusiasts and fostering relationships.

Adding a fun twist to their new location, the store sits at 151 W. Main Street—a number that holds special significance in the Pokémon world, representing the original 151 Pokémon.

The opening of Oliver’s Card House highlights the vital role that small, specialty retail plays in rural communities. Businesses like this not only fill niche markets but also create experiential destinations. These are places where people gather, connect, and spend time. By blending retail with community engagement, Oliver’s Card House is helping drive foot traffic to Main Street. The shop offers a unique experience that cannot be replicated online.

Oliver’s Card House is open Tuesday through Friday from 4:30 to 8 p.m, Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sundays from 12 to 4 p.m. For more information, visit their Facebook page.

Ambassadors in attendance include:  Abigail Ballard (Lifeplus), Brandi Curbo (Batesville Guard), Eva Henriksen (Merchants & Planters Bank), Michael Dickinson (City of Batesville), Michele Jennae (EDGx365), Nathan Dowen (Citizens Bank), Scott Phillips (UACCB), Silje Antonsen (First Community Bank), Sydney Wood (Main Street Batesville), and Taylor Williams (First Community Bank).