Established on the later part of the year 2006, Elite Airsoft Essex was founded by a father and son team, Greg and Steve. What makes EAE different from other airsoft shops is that although at the end of the day, it is still a business, it is actually owned and managed by real airsoft enthusiasts. And as have known these guys since the shop started; their love and commitment to the sport is unmatched.

Greg also have some big plans in the future and I know that players here in the South Essex area will be very happy when his plans come to reality. EAE is also a big supporter of the Popular Airsoft Website and Popular Airsoft Magazine. They provide us with some of our review items and Phil, who manages the shop, is always there to support us with any help we need from him.

Here is my interview with Greg:

You can start by introducing yourself and your staff, probably a short history or background of the shop.

GREG: Elite Airsoft Essex was founded by myself and my son about two years ago. We were already looking for a new business and airsoft was introduced to us by a friend at just the right time. As there were no local retailers for an excellent sport that was in its infancy and already owning a new and empty retail shop the rest fell into place. The shop is now managed by Phil, Adam and Tina, their love for the sport and great personalities are just what is needed to take us to the next level. An added attraction is Phil’s amazing mechanical skills, he fast got a reputation for making guns do the impossible. As Adam would say “you have to visit us to sample the full aromatic ambience”

How long have you been into airsoft?

We’ve been playing airsoft for three (3) years now.

How did you come up with the idea of starting up an airsoft shop?

I was introduced to airsoft by Steve Hayward. Since I already have an empty shop, it seemed the perfect opportunity.

When did Elite Airsoft Essex start?

The shop officially started operation in December 2006.

What are you aiming to achieve with Elite Airsoft Essex with regards to Airsoft retail, is it purely for business or for the development of the sport/hobby?

The Shop is run as a business, but above that, it is run by airsofters for airsofters. We are trying to increase the awareness of airsoft and promote it as a sport and assist its growth in the UK. We welcome new players and are happy to advise them on how to get started in the sport. We try to promote local airsoft sites and educate people on airsofting in general.

What airsoft products are available in the shop?

This could be a big list—pretty much all types of guns, assault rifles, support weapons, snipers, sub-machine guns, two-tone and clear, shotguns, clothing and tactical gear, communications, spares, pyrotechnics, all the bolt on accessories you can think of. We are able to get products from most of the major manufacturers.

Do you do Internet sales or purely walk in transactions?

We do have an online shop although we are primarily geared for face-to-face sales and find it beneficial for people as they can then handle the equipment prior to purchase.

Do you sponsor Airsoft games? If yes, where? Are the games “invite only” games? If so, why?

We do sponsor games at a private site close to our shop. It is pre-book only, as we limit the number of players on site.

We do also sponsor national events as well the last being “Codename: ThunderStrike” that took place in November 2008.

Any other future plans in relation to airsoft and to airsoft retail?

We have many plans that will come to light in the near future! Just stay tuned.

So if you leave near the South Essex area, feel free to visit these guys and I’m sure they will be very happy to assist you with your airsoft needs. You can find them at 12 Benfleet Road, Hadleigh, Benfleet, Essex, SS7 1QB or visit their online shop at www.eliteairsoftessex.co.uk.