Trading card collecting has undergone a significant transformation over the decades, evolving from a niche hobby into a global industry.
With Fanatics set to open its first-ever flagship store in London, the hobby is entering an exciting new phase, particularly for collectors in the UK and Europe.
But before we learn a little more about what’s to come, let’s take a trip down Trading Card Lane, to discover how we got here…
The Rise of Trading Card Stores in the U.S.
Trading card collecting didn’t start in hobby stores—it began as an afterthought, tucked inside cigarette packs and gum wrappers.
These small, printed pieces of sports history weren’t just collectibles; they were a glimpse into the golden age of baseball, a keepsake for kids who idolised the players on them.
By the 1950s and 60s, things started to change. Companies like Topps turned trading cards into an industry of their own, and collecting evolved into something more than just a childhood pastime—it became a cultural phenomenon.
As the 70s and 80s rolled in, small specialty card shops began appearing in cities and towns across the U.S. These stores weren’t just retail spaces; they were gathering places where collectors met to trade, discuss the latest releases, and hunt for rare finds.
The 90s took things to another level—hobby shops were thriving, new inserts and limited-edition cards were fueling excitement, and for a while, it seemed like the industry had no ceiling. But then, overproduction flooded the market. Suddenly, those once-prized cards lost their value, and interest waned.
By the early 2000s, the internet changed the game entirely, making it easier to buy and sell online, leaving many traditional card stores struggling to keep up.
Yet, collecting never truly faded. By the late 2010s, a resurgence was underway. Grading companies like PSA and BGS gave new importance to card condition and authenticity, while influencers and high-profile investors breathed new life into the market. Suddenly, trading cards weren’t just collectibles; they were assets, and the hobby had transformed once again.
Fanatics’ Game-Changing London Flagship Store
The upcoming Fanatics flagship store on Regent Street is set to continue the story and redefine what a trading card store can be. Spanning over 8,600 square feet, this location is designed to be much more than a shop—it is an immersive experience for collectors.
The store will offer a wide range of products, including single cards, retail boxes, and high-end hobby releases, with exclusive items available only in-store.
A dedicated breaking studio will host live pack openings, while trade nights and athlete signings will make it a true community hub.
The opening of Fanatics’ London flagship is a huge moment for the trading card hobby. With a dedicated space for collectors, exclusive product releases, and a calendar full of community events, it’s set to bring new energy to the market.
For longtime collectors, it offers a central hub to trade, connect, and discover rare cards. For newcomers, it’s an exciting introduction to a growing hobby.
