In a bold move that promises to stir the trading card waters across Europe, Fanatics has firmly planted its flag on London’s famed Regent Street, heralding the arrival of a revolutionary new era in hobby retail spaces. The brand-new, eye-catching, 8,647 square foot flagship store is more than just a commercial venture; it has been designed as a cultural landmark in the world of trading cards. This retail outpost serves as both a sanctuary and a beacon for collectors, encouraging them to delve deeper into the world of their cherished hobbies.
Simon Rosenberg, Head of Retail at Fanatics Collectibles, calls the store a “beacon for the hobby.” More than a simple marketplace, it’s a bustling hub where enthusiasts from all walks of life and corners of the continent can gather to exchange cards and stories alike, uncover precious memorabilia, and be a part of a global community that shares their passion.
This expansion move is Fanatics’ grand entrance into the thriving European market, perfectly timed to ride the wave of a skyrocketing trading card scene propelled by the pandemic’s enforced isolation, which brought many back to—or introduced them for the first time to—this nostalgic pastime. London, in particular, stands at the heart of this resurgence, with major events like The London Card Show drawing a significant crowd from around the globe, keen to participate in this growing phenomenon.
U.S card shops often carry the charm of small, independently run operations, thriving on local personality. Fanatics aims to elevate this experience across the pond by prioritizing professional modernization and creating an experience-driven format. “We’re setting a precedent for what best-in-class looks like,” Rosenberg proudly asserts, reflecting the determination to foster an inclusive environment for fans of every sport, whether they’re obsessed with soccer, Formula 1, American football, baseball or basketball.
The store aligns with the continued reign of soccer and Formula One as perennial favorites in Europe, offering an extensive selection that caters to both these and other global sports sensations. By also showcasing North American staples such as NFL, NBA, and MLB content, Fanatics is bridging geographical and cultural gaps, creating a melting pot for collectors who might otherwise never intersect.
The emergence of Fanatics in London has not gone unnoticed. CEO Michael Rubin’s tantalizing Instagram teasers have whetted the appetites of fans anticipating the grand opening, further fueled by the overwhelming turnout at Fanatics’ recent London pop-up. The expectations are set high with Rosenberg’s team ready to deliver beyond what Europe has seen before.
This isn’t just any store with irregular event schedules. Unlike periodic, convention-style card shows, Fanatics’ London flagship offers a seven-day-a-week immersive experience. Each visit promises a smorgasbord of daily pack openings, latest releases, exclusive in-store promotions, community gatherings, and delightful surprises tailor-made for both veteran collectors and newcomers alike. For European collectors, the mere existence of such a store signifies a recognition and respect for the hobby at a global scale.
The impact of Fanatics’ London store goes beyond retail ambitions. It aims to foster a strong sense of community among enthusiasts, ensuring accessibility and continuous growth for all involved in the hobby. Strategically situated within one of Europe’s busiest retail corridors, this store is poised to set a precedent: a modern, engaging, and inclusive hobby experience on an international stage.
Whether you’ve spent years meticulously piecing together your collection or are just taking your first steps as a fledgling collector eager to rip your first pack, the European hobby scene has been invigorated. The Fanatics London Flagship Store, now open on Regent Street, promises not only to meet but to exceed the expectations of a continent poised for collecting greatness. Onward, Europe; the world of trading cards awaits your embrace.
