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The Funko Pop franchise was founded in 1998 by Mike Becker, which initially focused on creating vinyl figures of nostalgic characters such as big boy. However, it was in 2005 that Funko made a significant mark in the toy industry by releasing its first series of Pop! Vinyl figures. These figurines became an instant success, quickly becoming collectibles among fans worldwide. Funko's success increased as they expanded their range of figures to include characters from movies, TV shows, video games, comics, and various areas of pop culture. Today, Funko stands as one of the most popular toy manufacturers globally, with its Pop! Vinyl figures being sold in over 100 countries (ArToys, 2023).
The reasons behind Funko's success lie in the affordability and accessibility of their Pop Vinyl figures, appealing to a wide audience of collectors and fans. The amount of variety and styles of characters available makes it easy for collectors to find figures from their favourite characters. These figures are not just toys but are considered collectibles, driving fans to purchase and build their collections. Looking ahead, Funko continues to expand its range of Pop Vinyl figures by introducing new characters and acquiring new licences (ArToys, 2023).
Funko's collaborations with popular brands and franchises like Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, DC Comics, and Harry Potter have further solidified its position in the toy industry. Notably, Funko has ventured beyond fictional characters to create Pop! Vinyl figures based on real people such as celebrities, athletes, and politicians. The cultural impact of Pop! Vinyl figures are undeniable, with these collectibles transcending into movies, TV shows, and commercials. As Funko Pop continues to innovate and expand its merchandise, it remains well-positioned to lead the toy industry for the future, attracting fans with its wide range of products that represents pop culture icons (ArToys, 2023).