The History of Funko Pop: From Nostalgic Toys to Pop Culture Icons
If you’ve ever walked into a comic book store or visited a collector’s room, chances are you’ve come across those adorable, big-headed toys known as Funko Pop! These vinyl figures have become a phenomenon in the world of collectibles, appealing to both children and adults alike. But how did Funko Pop become such a popular and beloved brand? Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore the fascinating history of Funko Inc.
Funko Inc. was founded in 1998 by toy collector Mike Becker and his wife Claudia Becker. The company started as a small project in their home in Snohomish, Washington. Mike Becker had a passion for nostalgia-themed toys and wanted to create affordable and low-tech toys that would resonate with collectors like himself.
The first bobblehead produced by Funko was of the iconic Big Boy mascot, known for its appearances in restaurant advertisements. This initial creation set the stage for what would become a thriving business. However, it wasn’t until Funko licensed the rights to produce bobbleheads for Austin Powers that they found real success. These Austin Powers bobbleheads sold an impressive 80,000 units, paving the way for Funko’s future endeavors.
In the early years, Funko focused on creating toys inspired by well-known characters such as the Grinch, Tony the Tiger, and the Cheerios honeybee. These toys quickly gained popularity among collectors and set the stage for Funko’s expansion into licensed products.
In 2005, Funko underwent a change in ownership when Mike Becker sold the company to Connor Orcutt, its current Chief Creative Officer. Orcutt moved the company’s headquarters to Lynnwood, Washington, and significantly expanded its licensed product lines. This expansion led to collaborations with major companies like Warner Bros., Disney, Marvel Entertainment, and many more.
One of Funko’s most significant breakthroughs came in 2011 with the introduction of their Pop! Vinyl line of toys. These figures, modelled in a style similar to the Japanese chibi style, quickly gained a massive following. With their large squarish heads, small bodies, and circular black eyes, Funko Pop! figures became instantly recognisable and highly collectible.
Over the years, Funko has produced thousands of products across dozens of different toy lines. The company’s mascot, Freddy Funko, has become a beloved character in the Funko franchise. In addition to the iconic Pop! Vinyl figures, Funko has expanded its product range to include plush toys, T-shirts, keychains, ceramic mugs, and even life-size statues.
In recent years, Funko has made several notable acquisitions to further strengthen its position in the industry. In 2019, the company acquired Loungefly, a fashion accessories line. This acquisition allowed Funko to venture into the world of stylish bags and purses featuring popular characters and designs.
Funko’s success can be attributed to its diverse range of licenses and its ability to create products that appeal to a wide audience. The company’s business model revolves around tracking the popularity of different characters and knowing when to move on to new ones. Funko’s quick turnaround time, from concept to shelf in just 70 days, has also contributed to its success.
Today, Funko Pop! figures continue to captivate collectors and fans worldwide. The brand’s convention exclusives, retail variants, and mystery minis have become highly sought-after items. Funko’s expansion into board games with the creation of Funko Games has also been well-received by enthusiasts.
Funko’s journey from a small project in a Washington home to a global pop culture phenomenon is a testament to the power of nostalgia and the love for collectibles. Whether you’re a fan of superheroes, movie characters, or music icons, there’s likely a Funko Pop! figure that captures your favorite character in an adorable and stylized form.
Written by Ilya U
