Bandai Namco is adding two new THE GUNDAM BASE locations in 2026, reflecting the continued rise of experiential retail and the enduring appeal of hobby communities across North America.
Bandai Namco Toys & Collectibles America and Bandai Namco Amusement America are expanding THE GUNDAM BASE in the United States with new permanent locations planned for Minneapolis and Seattle in 2026. The stores follow the opening of THE GUNDAM BASE Chicago, the first permanent North American location, which the company says has attracted thousands of visitors since launching in 2025. The expansion illustrates how entertainment companies are increasingly investing in physical destinations that serve not only as retail outlets but also as gathering places for dedicated fan communities.
Retail has become an increasingly important extension of entertainment franchises, particularly those with long histories and devoted global audiences. Rather than focusing solely on merchandise sales, many branded stores now emphasize immersive experiences that deepen fans’ connections with the worlds they enjoy. This strategy reflects a broader shift toward experiential retail, where displays, exclusive products, and community events encourage repeat visits and create a stronger sense of participation than traditional shopping environments.
THE GUNDAM BASE is built around GUNPLA, the plastic model kits inspired by the long-running Mobile Suit Gundam franchise, which has been a fixture of Japanese popular culture for more than four decades. According to the company, the Minneapolis location will open at Mall of America, while the Seattle store will be located at Westfield Southcenter. Each site will feature a broad selection of model kits, limited-edition merchandise, large-scale displays, themed environments, community events, and knowledgeable staff who can assist builders ranging from first-time hobbyists to experienced collectors.
The decision to expand beyond Chicago suggests that interest in model building continues to extend across generations and geographic regions. Hobbies such as GUNPLA combine craftsmanship, creativity, and fandom, appealing to enthusiasts who value both collecting and hands-on creation. Dedicated retail spaces also provide opportunities for demonstrations, workshops, and shared experiences that are difficult to replicate through online shopping alone.
Bandai Namco’s latest expansion highlights how established entertainment franchises are finding new ways to engage audiences through physical destinations as well as digital media. As fan communities continue to seek places where shared interests can be explored in person, specialized retail concepts like THE GUNDAM BASE are becoming an increasingly important part of the broader entertainment ecosystem. The new locations point to continued confidence in the appeal of hobby culture and experiential shopping across North America.
