Mall of America to welcome new Japanese collectibles retailers
Japan-based Bandai Namco, a global leader in entertainment and collectibles, is expanding its retail footprint in the United States.
The company will open two of its retail concepts – Bandai Namco Cross Store and The Gundam Base – at Mall of America on Sept. 30. Both stores will mark the second U.S. locations for their concepts.
Bandai Namco Cross Store brings together a diverse collection of official shops and entertainment brands in one destination, allowing shoppers to discover a wide range of products spanning character goods, toys, games, collectibles, stationery, plush and more. The Mall of America location will feature 15 official shops and brands within the store itself.
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The opening follows the success of the first U.S. location at Japan Village in Brooklyn, New York.
The Gundam Base is an official destination for Gunpla, which are plastic and non-plastic model kits depicting the vehicles and characters of the fictional Mobile Suit Gundam universe. The store will offer a wide selection of Gunpla, including exclusive and limited-edition model kits, tools, accessories,and other Gundam merchandise.
Shoppers can also explore displays and exhibits showcasing the world of Gundam and Gunpla, creating an immersive destination for both longtime builders and new fans.
Bandai Namco’s first The Gundam Base location opened in Chicago last December.
"We're excited to continue expanding The Gundam Base and Bandai Namco Cross Store across the United States with the opening of our new locations in Minneapolis," said Kunito Komori, president and CEO of Bandai Namco Amusement America. "We look forward to welcoming both new and longtime fans of Bandai Namco to celebrate with us."
Located in Bloomington, Minn., Mall of America is the largest retail and entertainment center in North America and welcomes more than 32 million visitors annually from around the world.
