For the first time, the Bandai Namco Cross Store is leaving Japan and opening its premier location in the UK. The “interactive retail experience” combines a collection of different stores including a Gashapon Bandai Official Shop so you can simulate pulling on the best gacha games in real life.
The British store location aims to be a “celebration of the physical market and Bandai Namco’s heritage as a worldwide entertainment company”, proving opportunities for fans to interact with their favorite characters and franchises. The site is made up of a Banpresto merchandise store, an Ichibankuji Official store where you can win merchandise in the ‘ichibankuji’ or number one lottery, a One Piece card game store, a stationery shop, and a gashapon shop.
Bandai Namco chose London’s Camden Market as the site for its first international Cross Store due to its reputation as a cultural hub and popular tourist destination. John McKenzie, MD of Bandai Namco Amusement Europe, said, “Camden, London, is widely recognized as offering an eclectic mix of cultural products and art. It is the perfect location to launch our Bandai Namco Cross Store concept in the UK which combines our expertise in locations-based entertainment with a rapidly growing demand for IP and concepts originating from our group’s Japanese culture.”
When is the Bandai Namco Cross Store opening?
The Bandai Namco Cross Store opens in Camden Market, London on July 18, 2023. You can find gashapon machines, character merchandise, collectables, and food and drink as well!
That’s everything you need to know about the Bandai Namco Cross Store in London. If you’re after more Bandai Namco content, check out our We Love Katamari Reroll and Royal Reverie review.