Crowds gathered for the opening of Gundam-Base London, the first permanent store dedicated to the legendary anime property
The first permanent store dedicated to Gundam opened in London’s Camden Market last week.
The Gundam-Base London grand opening was attended by Gundam royalty, Mr. Takanori Nishikawa, a popular Japanese singer closely associated with the Gundam series, and a massive Gundam fan – who declared the store officially open in front of an army of Gundam fans queuing outside.
John McKenzie, Managing Director at Bandai Namco Amusement Europe Ltd said: “Following the great success of the Gundam Base Pop Up in London, we are incredibly excited to launch the first ever permanent UK Gundam Base. The store will give fans the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of Gundam and we are very much looking forward to welcoming the community along to experience it.”
Following an initial exclusive preview for media and influencers, the store was opened to the public where eager fans, some of which had queued since the early hours of the morning, could take in the immersive displays, impressive statues and exclusive lines.
Products include the hugely popular Gunpla range from Bandai Hobby, and various Gundam product ranges such as Tamashii Nations, Banpresto, Ichibansho and the Gundam Card Game.
“The opening of our permanent Gundam Base Store in the UK represents the strength and heritage of the Gundam brand, as well as the wider growth of anime as a whole,” said Kazu Kojima, Commercial Director at Bandai Toy & Hobby UK. “This once niche category is now a solid part of mainstream culture, and the appetite shown by fans at the store opening today really demonstrates how popular Gundam has become over its 47-year history. Anime is here to stay and Gundam is leading the way.”
Pictured, L-R: Bandai UK Commercial Director, Kazu Kojima; singer songwriter, Takanori Nishikawa; Ambassador of Japan to the UK, Hiroshi Suzuki; Managing Director Bandai Namco Amusement Europe, John McKenzie. Credit: Bandai / Barry Video.
