{"id":96534,"date":"2025-03-24T05:37:32","date_gmt":"2025-03-24T09:37:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/?p=96534"},"modified":"2025-03-24T10:54:54","modified_gmt":"2025-03-24T14:54:54","slug":"fanatics-collectibles-london-store-interview","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/uk\/fanatics-collectibles-london-store-interview\/","title":{"rendered":"Inside Fanatics Collectibles&#8217; Groundbreaking New London Store"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"hero-container hero-image-container\" id=\"hero-image-container\">\n  <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"hero-image\" src=\"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Inside-Fanatics-Collectibles-Groundbreaking-New-London-Store.png\" \/>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">An Interview with Head of Retail for Fanatics Collectibles Simon Rosenberg<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>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\u2014it\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"97233\" src=\"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/6-3-1024x683.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-97233\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/6-3-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/6-3-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/6-3-210x140.png 210w, https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/6-3-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/6-3.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Head of Retail for Fanatics Collectibles Simon Rosenberg<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why is Fanatics Collectibles Opening This Store?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to Rosenberg, this store is being established as a &#8220;beacon for the hobby,&#8221; providing a dedicated space for collectors, fans, and newcomers to engage with the trading card world. \u201cIt\u2019s 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.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>He emphasizes that modern retail needs to go beyond simple transactions. \u201cRetail is gasping for new opportunities,\u201d he says, highlighting the store\u2019s role in encouraging education, engagement, and community-building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/7-2-1024x683.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-97237\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/7-2-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/7-2-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/7-2-210x140.png 210w, https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/7-2-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/7-2.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What Can Collectors Expect to See &amp; Experience in Store?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With so much planned, Rosenberg mentioned several key attractions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>The Central Ring Display<\/strong> \u2013 This area will house some of the rarest and most iconic cards, displayed in a way that\u2019s visually stunning and exciting for collectors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The Breaker Studio<\/strong> \u2013 A space for live streaming and content creation, featuring Fanatics Live\u2019s top breakers sharing their expertise with the world.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The Custom Card Creation Room<\/strong> \u2013 Visitors can design their own personalized trading cards using professional-grade technology.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How Will the Store Foster a Sense of Community?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Community is a fundamental pillar of this store\u2019s design. Rosenberg explains that they will achieve this through:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Education<\/strong> \u2013 Interactive touchscreens, knowledgeable team members, and clear on-shelf displays to guide both beginners and experienced collectors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Regular Events<\/strong> \u2013 Hobby nights, trade nights, rip nights, product launches, and athlete appearances will ensure that there is always something happening.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Live Breaking &amp; Social Engagement<\/strong> \u2013 The store will regularly feature live pack openings and sports broadcasts, making it a hub for real-time excitement.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How Does This Store Differ from Traditional Hobby Shops?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fanatics is bringing a European finesse to what is traditionally an American model. \u201cIn the U.S., trading card stores are highly independent, with varied ways of working. We\u2019re setting a precedent for what best-in-class looks like,\u201d Rosenberg explains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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\u2019s most iconic retail locations. \u201cIt\u2019s a level of execution that will be difficult for others to match,\u201d he adds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/6-4-1024x683.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-97241\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/6-4-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/6-4-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/6-4-210x140.png 210w, https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/6-4-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/6-4.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Can you tell us more about the product range on offer?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8220;As well as wax product&nbsp;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.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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 &amp; Ness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Will There Be Exclusive or Limited-Edition Products?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Absolutely. Rosenberg confirms that this store will receive special product exclusives, some of which will be unveiled during the grand opening. \u201cThese exclusives are key to building engagement with the community,\u201d he notes, adding that the details will be revealed closer to the launch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What is the Biggest Challenge in Bringing This Store to Life?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the biggest hurdles was working with the Crown Estate, which oversees the property on Regents Street. \u201cEverything from planning permissions to surveys to hoarding approvals had to go through them,\u201d Rosenberg says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How Will the Breaking Studio Integrate Digital and Physical Experiences?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The breaking studio will be one of the store\u2019s main attractions, blending live content with in-store excitement. \u201cIt\u2019s a place for people to witness incredible pulls in real-time,\u201d Rosenberg says. \u201cThis adds theater to the experience and draws in both collectors and casual visitors.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/4-3-1024x683.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-97245\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/4-3-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/4-3-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/4-3-210x140.png 210w, https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/4-3-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/4-3.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What Is Rosenberg Personally Most Excited About?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For him, the most rewarding moment will be seeing collectors engage with the store. \u201cThe first time someone pulls an incredible card at our trading tables and celebrates\u2014that\u2019s when I\u2019ll know we\u2019ve done something special,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With the grand opening set for April 2025, Fanatics Collectibles\u2019 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt\u2019s going to be the greatest trading card store in the world,\u201d Rosenberg promises. Based on what we\u2019ve learned, it\u2019s hard to argue otherwise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong>READ MORE ABOUT THE NEW LONDON FLAGSHIP STORE<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/uk\/fanatics-collectibles-flagship-store-opens-spring-2025\/\">London Calling: Fanatics Collectibles\u2019 Flagship Store Opens Spring 2025<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/uk\/new-fanatics-london-store-breaking-studio\/\">Breaking the Hobby Wide Open: The New Fanatics London Store Breaking Studio<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/uk\/fanatics-london-flagship-a-new-era-for-trading-card-stores\/\">Fanatics\u2019 London Flagship: A New Era for Trading Card Stores<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>An Interview with Head of Retail for Fanatics Collectibles Simon Rosenberg<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":97228,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"mc4wp_mailchimp_campaign":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[8829,9978],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-96534","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-hobby-news-uk","category-london-flagship-store"],"acf":{"color_theme":"rgba(255,80,119,1)"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/96534","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=96534"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/96534\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/97228"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=96534"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=96534"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=96534"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}