The countdown is on. The new Real Sportscards shop in Blaine (1510 109th Ave NE) will open at 8:00 AM on Black Friday, and collectors across the metro are buzzing. The excitement was evident to me as two separate groups of collectors knocked on the door during my visit and there wasn’t even signage up yet. Strategically positioned near the National Sports Center — which boasts 4.5 million visitors annually — the shop is set to attract collectors from around the world.
The Blaine location exemplifies the emerging Card Shop 2.0 model, combining modern retail design with the energy of an entertainment venue and the accessibility of a community gathering space. This clearly is going to be a destination store with many aspects that remind me of the newer shop concepts like Burbank Sportscards in California or Cards HQ in Atlanta.
Owner Ryan Holland and his team are adding in some very unique features that are redefining the sports card retail experience. At the center of the store, a jumbotron-style setup of TVs will tower above the counter, which is surrounded by display cases that will be filled with sealed boxes and packs, and barstools where collectors can purchase and rip wax without leaving their seat. Add additional TVs scattered throughout the shop, and you’ve got a space that feels more like BDubs than a traditional hobby store. With more than 6,000 square feet, this is one of the largest card shops in Minnesota. Highlights include:
- 10 double-sided vertical display cases for singles which will be organized by sport, TCG, and price points
- 20 display cases for wax
- 16 TVs which will have all the games on
- 3 breaking studios with smart glass that will allow customers to watch breaks that are occurring, and one of them will double as a podcast studio
- An amazing conference room with a countertop that opens directly to the shop for birthday parties, autograph signings, PSA onsite events, trade night food service, and other events
Additionally, they’ll have sections for supplies and apparel, and will provide services such as grading submissions. Real Sportscards is also moving their online fulfillment operations to the Blaine store. The modern layout, combined with community-focused spaces, makes it clear this shop is designed for more than transactions — it’s built for experiences. Here’s some unsolicited advice to everyone… Ryan shared with me their plans for the grand opening celebration in the very near future. The prizes they are going to be giving away are unprecedented – no exaggeration – I’ve never heard of anything like it. Follow them on Facebook or Instagram so you are in the loop when the prizes and details of how to win are announced.
