THE GUNDAM BASE and Bandai Namco Cross Store delay Mall of America openings

Bandai Namco has pushed back the Mall of America debut of its Bandai Namco Cross Store and THE GUNDAM BASE in Minneapolis, postponing both shops from a planned 30 September opening.

What was planned

Bandai Namco Amusement America and Bandai Namco Toys & Collectibles announced the double opening on 17 September, billing the two stores as the second US locations for each retail concept. The Cross Store gathers Bandai Namco brands and collectables under one roof, while THE GUNDAM BASE is the company's dedicated Gunpla and Gundam retail space. Both were due to open inside the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota on 30 September.

Why the opening slipped

In an update dated 26 September, the company said the openings had been postponed from the original date and apologised for the disruption. Bandai Namco says it will announce a new opening date once it is confirmed, along with more detail about what shoppers can expect, and has asked fans to check back for updates. No reason has been given for the delay, and no replacement date has been set.

Our opinion

A delay is never the news a fan wants, but the Cross Store and THE GUNDAM BASE are worth the wait, and Bandai Namco has handled the messaging the right way: an honest update, an apology and a promise of a firm date rather than a vague “soon”. What makes this opening notable is what it signals. Bandai Namco is treating the US as a real home for Gundam retail rather than a pop-up curiosity, and the Mall of America is a statement address to choose. The only thing missing now is the date, so the safest advice is to hold any travel plans and watch the company's own channels instead of the resale listings.