An Interview with Head of Retail for Fanatics Collectibles Simon Rosenberg
With an ambitious vision and an aggressive timeline, Fanatics Collectibles is preparing to launch what could be the most innovative trading card store in the world. Located in one of the most prominent retail locations on Regent Street, London, this store aims to be more than just a place to buy collectibles—it’s a hub for the trading card community. We spoke with Simon Rosenberg, a key figure behind this project, to understand what makes this store special and what collectors can expect.
Head of Retail for Fanatics Collectibles Simon Rosenberg
Why is Fanatics Collectibles Opening This Store?
According to Rosenberg, this store is being established as a “beacon for the hobby,” providing a dedicated space for collectors, fans, and newcomers to engage with the trading card world. “It’s a place where international fans of all sports and interests, as well as the community, can discover, be surprised, delighted, and have a place to visit, hang out, and rip packs.”
He emphasizes that modern retail needs to go beyond simple transactions. “Retail is gasping for new opportunities,” he says, highlighting the store’s role in encouraging education, engagement, and community-building.
What Can Collectors Expect to See & Experience in Store?
With so much planned, Rosenberg mentioned several key attractions:
- The Central Ring Display – This area will house some of the rarest and most iconic cards, displayed in a way that’s visually stunning and exciting for collectors.
- The Breaker Studio – A space for live streaming and content creation, featuring Fanatics Live’s top breakers sharing their expertise with the world.
- The Custom Card Creation Room – Visitors can design their own personalized trading cards using professional-grade technology.
How Will the Store Foster a Sense of Community?
Community is a fundamental pillar of this store’s design. Rosenberg explains that they will achieve this through:
- Education – Interactive touchscreens, knowledgeable team members, and clear on-shelf displays to guide both beginners and experienced collectors.
- Regular Events – Hobby nights, trade nights, rip nights, product launches, and athlete appearances will ensure that there is always something happening.
- Live Breaking & Social Engagement – The store will regularly feature live pack openings and sports broadcasts, making it a hub for real-time excitement.
How Does This Store Differ from Traditional Hobby Shops?
Fanatics is bringing a European finesse to what is traditionally an American model. “In the U.S., trading card stores are highly independent, with varied ways of working. We’re setting a precedent for what best-in-class looks like,” Rosenberg explains.
He emphasizes that this store will be a combination of cutting-edge technology, an engaging environment, and a knowledgeable team, all set in one of the world’s most iconic retail locations. “It’s a level of execution that will be difficult for others to match,” he adds.
Can you tell us more about the product range on offer?
“As well as wax product from Topps and TCGs we are also offering supplies and accessories to ensure that any keen hobbyists have all the tools they require to display and protect their cards.
Away from cards we can also celebrate the worlds of Topps and our iconic London home with Exclusive Topps Merch and collabs including a range designed with Mitchell & Ness.
A major part of the store will also showcase some incredibly rare memorabilia signed by an eclectic mix of the worlds greatest athletes spanning Football, F1, Basketball and US Sports.”
Will There Be Exclusive or Limited-Edition Products?
Absolutely. Rosenberg confirms that this store will receive special product exclusives, some of which will be unveiled during the grand opening. “These exclusives are key to building engagement with the community,” he notes, adding that the details will be revealed closer to the launch.
What is the Biggest Challenge in Bringing This Store to Life?
One of the biggest hurdles was working with the Crown Estate, which oversees the property on Regents Street. “Everything from planning permissions to surveys to hoarding approvals had to go through them,” Rosenberg says.
How Will the Breaking Studio Integrate Digital and Physical Experiences?
The breaking studio will be one of the store’s main attractions, blending live content with in-store excitement. “It’s a place for people to witness incredible pulls in real-time,” Rosenberg says. “This adds theater to the experience and draws in both collectors and casual visitors.”
What Is Rosenberg Personally Most Excited About?
For him, the most rewarding moment will be seeing collectors engage with the store. “The first time someone pulls an incredible card at our trading tables and celebrates—that’s when I’ll know we’ve done something special,” he says.
Final Thoughts
With the grand opening set for April 2025, Fanatics Collectibles’ London flagship store is set to redefine what a hobby shop can be. Combining cutting-edge retail concepts, deep community engagement, and an exclusive product lineup, this store will serve as a landmark for collectors around the world.
“It’s going to be the greatest trading card store in the world,” Rosenberg promises. Based on what we’ve learned, it’s hard to argue otherwise.
READ MORE ABOUT THE NEW LONDON FLAGSHIP STORE
- London Calling: Fanatics Collectibles’ Flagship Store Opens Spring 2025
- Breaking the Hobby Wide Open: The New Fanatics London Store Breaking Studio
- Fanatics’ London Flagship: A New Era for Trading Card Stores
