Fanatics, the sports merchandise giant, is broadening its horizons by enlarging its calendar of events across the United States, introducing new formats and destinations to its impressive lineup. Simultaneously, Topps, the leading producer of sports and entertainment collectibles, is reshaping its promotions, piquing the interest of collectors and sports enthusiasts alike.
During the Topps Industry Conference, held in the vibrant city of Atlanta, Fanatics revealed its grand plan for its premier ‘FanaticsFest’, poised to transform the Javits Center in New York into a gargantuan playground of fandom, culture, and collecting from the 16th to 18th of August. This sweeping fusion of sports and culture won’t be confined to the Empire State, however. Further rendezvous are slated for Orlando, Florida from November 1-3, with the sunshine state bearing witness to a gathering focused predominantly on collectibles. Meanwhile, PNC Park in Pittsburgh will house an intimate collectors’ fair on September 28-29, promising to lure fans in with tantalizing autograph sessions featuring well-loved athletes from the local scene.
This wave of nationwide events emanates from Fanatics’ overarching strategy of bringing fans together. The company plans to host an exciting cocktail of large-scale congregations, regional meet-ups, and exclusive events in sports venues, while also partnering with sports leagues for significant occasions like drafts. If that wasn’t enough to whet fan appetite, detailed announcements on upcoming gatherings are expected to be unveiled soon.
Meanwhile, Topps is not resting on its laurels either, with a slew of engaging initiatives lined up to enthrall collectors. All eyes are on the return of Trading Card Day, scheduled for August 3. The popular event will see hobby shops offering free exclusive packs to visitors. Also stepping back into the spotlight is the MVP Buyback program, set to return this fall. This program allows collectors to trade recent MLB MVP cards for coveted store credit.
Riding the wave of the previous year’s success, the second Hobby Rip Night is opening its doors on September 14. Last year, the event contributed to record sales for 18% of the 409 participating stores. Not to be outdone, a fresh initiative, Hobby Break Night, will plant its flag on the events calendar on December 14. This online event will keep collectors glued to their screens with live case, box, and pack openings, not to mention the allure of guest appearances and giveaways.
In the grand scheme of things, both Fanatics and Topps are upping their game to connect the dots between fandom and collecting, presenting fans and collectors with a smorgasbord of enriched experiences. Their dedicated efforts and ongoing innovation promise a thrilling journey for sports enthusiasts, shaping the landscape of American sporting culture for the better.
