Hunter Branson and Ben Kotula are no strangers to the local card scene. After building a strong online presence and a steady show circuit under the RippinItRaw brand, the duo took a major leap last summer with the launch of RipCon in Waite Park — an event that drew collectors from across the state. That momentum has now led to their biggest project yet: Minnesota’s newest brick‑and‑mortar shop, RipCity Trading Cards & Collectibles in Waite Park.
Branson and Kotula announced the shop back in April, and since then have spent months transforming the space — much of it with their own hands. They’ve documented the entire journey on Instagram and Facebook, giving followers a behind‑the‑scenes look at the buildout, the late nights, and the excitement leading up to opening day.
Located just off Division Street near Olive Garden, RipCity is designed to be a full hobby hub, not just a retail stop. The shop features: 50 gaming chairs for tournaments and casual play, 40 feet of slatwall packed with wax, 40 feet of display cases loaded with singles, arcade games, a dedicated play area for D&D, Pokémon, Magic, and more (with Pokémon as the primary focus at launch). And maybe the coolest part — a lifesize 3D‑printed Mewtwo watching over the space.
The RipCity team is kicking things off with a full‑day celebration built to draw collectors, families, and Pokémon fans alike. The grand opening will include local food trucks, prize drawings throughout the day, meet‑and‑greet opportunities with fellow collectors and Pokémon fans, live drawing for the Pokémon Center Exclusive 25th Anniversary Elite Trainer Box, and one of the day’s biggest highlights: ripping an Expedition pack from the early 2000s valued at around $2,000.
Branson and Kotula have made it clear that RipCity is more than a shop — it’s a true community hub built to elevate the Minnesota hobby scene. We’re excited to see their vision come to life and wish them nothing but success. Rip City has now been added to our card shop directory, where you can find directions and full shop details.
