In a groundbreaking move that redefines the traditional trading card experience, two industry titans, PSA and Burbank Sportscards, have teamed up to open the first-ever physical grading retail store. Nestled within the expansive 14,000-square-foot Burbank Sportscards megastore in Southern California, the doors to this collector’s paradise officially swing open on May 30. This partnership marks a monumental leap for both companies and provides a fresh customer-centric approach for the collecting community.
At the heart of this collaboration is the seamless integration of PSA’s grading services within Burbank’s massive and meticulously curated space. Rather than opting for a standalone location, PSA has strategically entwined its services within the bustling environment of the Burbank store. This innovative setup is fully staffed by PSA employees, ensuring collectors receive hands-on assistance and direct access to expert grading services daily.
For Ryan Hoge, President of PSA, this venture represents an exciting opportunity to foster closer connections with collectors. “This is about being closer to the customer,” Hoge stated. “Collectors love being able to talk to our team at events. Now we’re giving them a place to do that every day.” With in-store opportunities for grading a diverse range of collectibles—from standard trading cards to autographs, unopened packs, Funko Pops, and even tickets—PSA aims to deliver unparalleled convenience and expertise to hobbyists.
Moreover, PSA isn’t just offering grading services. Collectors will benefit from additional amenities such as Vault storage and eBay consignment, supplementing their collecting activities with secure and streamlined solutions.
Rob Veres, the visionary owner of Burbank Sportscards, sees this collaboration as more than just an upgrade of the card shop model. It’s a reimagining of what it means to be a collector in the modern age. Veres envisions a hybrid environment that captures the thrill of a live card show while offering the dependable framework of a premier retail space. “We wanted to create something immersive,” Veres explained. “Collectors should be able to walk in and feel like they’re in the heart of the hobby—not just flipping through cards, but fully engaged.”
True to this vision, the store boasts access to a staggering inventory of over 40 million cards via a user-friendly kiosk system. Collectors can easily request items, which employees will promptly pull from a vast digital catalog. For those inclined towards treasure hunts, the store offers over 1 million cards on the floor for the wallet-friendly price of just 25 cents each, all organized by sport and year.
Veres is determined to make Burbank Sportscards the ultimate destination for a wide spectrum of collectors, whether their quest involves tracking down elusive vintage cards or piecing together a beloved childhood set.
This isn’t the first time Burbank Sportscards has turned heads in the collecting world. Earlier this year, they made waves by pulling all inventory from eBay, instead opting for exclusivity with the Fanatics Collect marketplace. This bold move, announced at the 2024 National Sports Collectors Convention, created a buzz that is echoed in the excitement surrounding the new retail store’s launch.
While it’s uncertain if PSA plans to expand this physical presence with additional locations, the demand for face-to-face, expert-level service continues to grow. This collaboration captures the moment perfectly, offering a unique blend of accessibility, expertise, and community engagement.
The union of PSA’s trusted grading services and Burbank Sportscards’ extensive collector-friendly setup isn’t merely the opening of a new storefront; it’s a tangible reflection of how the hobby is transforming. The emphasis is progressively shifting toward more interactive, open, and community-driven collecting experiences. Now more than ever, the world of trading cards is becoming an engaging journey, inviting collectors old and new to rediscover the joy of their cherished hobby.