KEARNEY, Neb. — Mike Johnson has officially opened the doors to Hot Corner Cards & Collectibles, reigniting not just his own passion for sports cards but also tapping backinto an industry experiencing remarkable resurgence. This newly inaugurated shop, located across from Hy-Vee, symbolizes the culmination of Johnson's 40-year love affair with sports cards.
"The collection started to kind of get bigger, bigger and bigger and over the last year or so, we’ve kind of been putting more thoughtinto doing it again for fun," Johnson reflected. With decades of experience as both collector and trader, Johnson's informal foray is now upgraded to formal business.
But this isn’t Johnson's first shot at the retail game. While attending college, he initiated his first venture, The Gridiron, which catered to similar enthusiasts. "It was fun, but it was just not the right time for me to do...that because, atthat time, I had to make a living and it was tough to do...atthat age," he shared, recalling the challenges of balancing academic responsibilities and entrepreneurship.
The reopening of this chapter aligns perfectly with the broader revival of the sports card industry—an unforeseen boon triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. "The number one thingthat re-energized the sports card industry is COVID," Johnson noted, explaining how lockdowns encouraged countless people to sift through their attic treasures and rediscover their old card collections.
Decades after selling The Gridiron, Johnson's return is not just about showcasing high-profile cards; it’s also about rekindling nostalgic memories for enthusiasts. While he understands his target audience, he welcomes newcomers and longtime fans alike, eager to share insights and stories about the cards on display.
Johnson's new venture is positioned at the crossroads of nostalgia and modernity. Amid the changing tides of collectibles—where digital cards and NFTs also make headlines—he seeks to create space where people can connect over physical memorabilia.
For now, the excitement surrounding Hot Corner Cards & Collectibles is just beginning. Its promising future awaits as Johnson hopes to see his shop thrive and become integral to Kearney's community of sports fans and collectors alike.
With its vibrant character and the charm of face-to-face interactions, this sports card shop is more than just retail; it’s poised to become a gathering place for those who share the same passion. Johnson’s effort not only revives his past but also promises much for the future of local sports card trading.
