Build Up! Import Hobby — Local services in Independence

QUICK REVIEW: I had a fairly unique request for the crew at Build Up! -- and they absolutely delivered! Craziest of all, my entire experience was through messaging them online due to a strict "I'm only in town for 3 days" timeline. I highly, highly recommend anyone interested in the range of hobbies seen on their site and social media to head directly into the store. Even if you're brand new to the hobby!

MY EXPERIENCE: I know next to nothing about model kits, but my best friend did and was getting married soon. I really wanted to get him a gift that gave him some time to himself (since he would be eternally and legally attached to his beautiful bride for eternity 😅). I no longer live in Kansas City, but I reached out to Build Up! through Facebook with a request: "I've got $XXX, my friend likes Gundam model kits, and my sister is going to be the one to pick up whatever kit(s) you choose." Jared put together a collection of kits that fit my request and then some. My buddy absolutely loved it.

He even went up to the store himself recently to look at other kits and options. He called me immediately as he walked out of the store and I could literally hear in his voice that he was smiling ear to ear from the positive, informative experience he had. I can honestly say I felt the exact same way through the business' quick, open, and extremely educational communication -- all of which was online.

While I've yet to visit the location in-person, I will undoubtedly be adding it to my "must stop" visits anytime I'm back in KC -- and...

This is a really really special place. I've been building Gunpla for about a year now and this the first place that comes to mind if I wanted a new kit, tools, or accessories. Everyone is so friendly and super knowledgeable. You honestly feel like friends as soon as you walk in the door. I can ask them any wacky question and they have an answer for it. Regardless of being a beginner or upper level builder they will meet you where you're at and help you with everything. I've been to other places in town but never have had the same experience. Other places aren't always as friendly and/or don't know as much about the differences in Gunpla kits. No offense to other businesses but if you're looking at anything Gunpla related then Build Up should be...

I visited the shop last summer while I was in town from Tucson, AZ.. I didn't make any purchases; however, I was so impressed by the owner (Jared?) that I know I'll find something I want when I visit again this summer.

I've never been to a store where a person can actually open a kit to view its contents. Jared took time to show me where the various kits were located, then let me browse at my leisure. The shop itself it well-organized and has that wonderful model kit aromatic scent.

Before I left, he gave me a interesting and informative talk about his shop and product lines. And he shared stories about the various displays. IMO, this is how a specialty store should be operated. Thank you,...