We did it! After 3 years of operating online, we have managed to open the first Rivals Corner flagship store in Southeast London!
Perhaps the biggest “game changer” for us having this store is the ability to stock an extensive range of hobby tools from Mr. Hobby, Tamiya, Madworks, Godhands and Gunprimer.
Due to postage restrictions on many hobby tools, especially sprays, we have been hesitant to expand our tools range whilst operating online. In this store, we are stocking the full range of Mr. Hobby Gundam paints and sprays, as well as thinners and solvents previously not available online.
Furthermore, we are delighted to be stocking a comprehensive range of Madworks in our store. From Madworks NPM-01 Mr. Pro Samurai Single Blade Nipper and carving guide tape to sanding sponges, we are delighted to be the only retailer in the UK physically stocking Madworks.
This store has been a long time coming. We first saw the railway arch around 1 year ago, and the legal process itself took a year. As we are renting a shell and core, we had to employ a builder to make the arch functional - from levelling the floor with concrete to building storage space at the back, as well as installing light fixtures, vents and plumbing. This in itself was a lengthy process as we were working with a tight budget, and we are glad we asked around as the quotes we were receiving were as wild as double what we ended up paying.
Once the arch was usable, it was time to start building the store. Most days and nights, it was my wife and I building and painting flat-pack furniture. But on occasion, we also had customers who have turned friends help us, which we are beyond thankful for. As community is the core of Rivals Corner, we have therefore dedicated a specific section spotlighting builds made by the community. From GBWC winners and SD kits which have been customised, to Tamiya builds, we are particularly proud of this section of the store.
Oh and you won’t be able to miss the PG Nu standing proudly next to the till. Let me begin by saying that this was a group effort. I had it in my mind to build this kit for the shop but unfortunately, time was the enemy. So, I put a call out on Instagram, and 6 of us went to a local pub to build the inner frame all in one afternoon. Our mate Dom then decided to take the kit home to paint it. The final result is nothing short of amazing, if I don’t mind saying so myself!
Come drop by and say hello sometime! Located in the new Neptune Wharf complex, we are a 15-minute walk away from Surrey Quays Overground. Alternatively, you can catch a bus from Canada Water station or take a slightly longer walk from Deptford and South Bermondsey stations. The exact address is Arch 3, 5 Canal Approach, London, SE8 5FF.
Oh, and keep an eye out for bi-monthly build days. After hosting them in external venues, we are super excited to have our own space to host these awesome community events more regularly.
Keep building, Rivals and see you real soon!
D&K
Below photos courtesy of @whatsatt
https://www.instagram.com/whatssat/
