Funko Pop! collectables have become a cultural phenomenon, transforming from a small bobblehead maker into a $1 billion global brand. Whether you’re a die-hard collector or just someone who’s seen those big-headed vinyl figures on store shelves, there’s no denying that Funko has left its mark on pop culture.
But how did this happen? How did a quirky toy company become such a powerhouse in the entertainment and collectables industry? Let’s dive into the journey of Funko and how it became the phenomenon we know today.
The Birth of Funko
Founding by Mike Becker- 1998
It all started in 1998 in Washington when a man named Mike Becker, a nostalgic toy lover, decided to create his own line of collectables under the name Funko. He wanted to bring back the charm of classic advertising mascots by launching a series of bobbleheads called Wacky Wobblers. His first product was a bobblehead of the Big Boy restaurant mascot, which gained unexpected popularity, laying the foundation for the business.
In fact, Funko wasn’t meant to be a billion-dollar business at the beginning. Becker originally ran it out of his home in Washington, treating it more like a passion project than a major brand. However, once the first bobbleheads started selling, he realised there was a much bigger demand for nostalgic collectables than he expected.
Initial Struggles and Successes
Like any small business, Funko also faced its fair share of struggles. Production was limited, licensing deals were tough to secure, and the market was unpredictable. However, Funko’s big break came when it started creating bobbleheads based on popular TV and movie characters. When Austin Powers bobbleheads became a hit, it was clear that fans wanted collectables from their favourite franchises.
Becker kept the business running until 2005, when he decided to sell it to someone who could take it to the next level.
Funko Pop BLEACH Ichigo Chase – Special Edition
Funko Under the Era of Brian Mariotti- 2005
Brian Mariotti was an entrepreneur with a big vision. When Mariotti took over Funko in 2005, he immediately saw its potential to become more than just a niche bobblehead company. He wanted Funko to expand beyond advertising mascots and into mainstream pop culture. Under his leadership, the company secured licensing deals with major entertainment studios, giving Funko access to some popular franchises like Marvel, DC, Star Wars, and Disney.
Introduction of Pop! Vinyl Figures- 2010
The real turning point for Funko came in 2010 when it introduced Pop! vinyl figures. Unlike bobbleheads, Pop! Vinyls had a distinctive design with oversized heads, small bodies, and simple facial features. These figures had a universal appeal because they could be adapted to almost any franchise – movies, TV shows, anime, video games, celebrities, you name it.
The first Pop! vinyl line featured characters from DC Comics, including Batman and Superman. The figures were a hit, and soon, more franchises jumped on board. It didn’t take long before Funko became a dominant force in the collectables market.
Signing Major Licensing Deals
One of Funko’s smartest moves was securing licensing deals with just about every major entertainment company. The list of partnerships grew quickly, covering everything from Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Game of Thrones to Stranger Things, Pokémon, and The Office. This meant there was something for everyone, no matter what fandom you belonged to.
Funko Pop! Demon Slayer
Achieving the $1 Billion Milestone
Going Public and Financial Growth
By 2017, Funko had grown so much that it decided to go public with an IPO. The early stock market response was mixed, but over time, Funko secured its place. Its ability to churn out collectables for new and classic franchises helped it reach the $1 billion revenue mark in just a few years.
Diversification of Product Lines
Funko didn’t just stop with Pop! Vinyl figures. The company diversified into apparel, board games, action figures, and even digital collectables (NFTs). This helped Funko stay put in an ever-changing market, ensuring that it wasn’t just a one-hit wonder!
Funko Pop Harry Potter
The Role of Pop Culture and Community Engagement
Funko into Pop Culture
At this point, Funko isn’t just making collectables about pop culture. It has become a part of pop culture. Funko Pop! figures are everywhere, from TV shows to comic book stores to major retail chains. The brand’s visibility is one of the main reasons behind its continued success.
Building a Loyal Fanbase
Another major factor in Funko’s rise has been its passionate fanbase (aka the “Funatics”). Fans started connecting and sharing their collections via social media platforms, leading to online communities, forums and groups. Funko has also done an excellent job of engaging with its fans through events like Funko Fun Days, special edition releases, and an online community that thrives on trading and collecting. By fostering a dedicated collector culture, Funko ensures that its products remain in high demand.
Funko Pop BTS 224 – Jungkook Dynamite
How Does the Future of Funko Pop! Looks Like?
Notable Investments and Partnerships
Funko’s success has attracted major investors, including a $263 million investment from The Chernin Group, Bob Iger and eBay. This financial backing is helping Funko expand its global reach and explore new business opportunities.
Following Digital Trends
Funko has also stepped into the digital age with NFT collectables and other digital ventures. While physical Pop! figures are still its bread and butter, the company understands the importance of staying ahead of trends, ensuring its place in the future of collectables.
Funko Pop Kingdom Hearts – Mickey
In Summary
If you ask us, Funko’s journey from a small bobblehead maker to a $1 billion empire is nothing short of incredible! Thanks to smart leadership, strategic licensing deals, and an ever-expanding product range, Funko has positioned itself as a pop culture powerhouse. Whether you’re a casual fan or a dedicated collector, Funko’s impact on the world of collectables is something you can’t overlook. And the best part? It doesn’t look like they’re slowing down anytime soon. So, as an anime fanatic myself, here’s to more growth!
