Prepare for a unique blend of athletic rivalry, pop culture, and treasure hunting as Fanatics rolls out its plans for a nationwide event expansion, while Topps tunes up a series of enthralling promotions for collectors. The strategies of both companies will curate a melange where sports enthusiasts switch roles with collectors, and fandom integrates gracefully with the culture of collecting.
Starting from the hustling city of New York, Fanatics is extending its footprint, diversifying its event initiative throughout the United States. The first stop is a fan fest at the renowned New York’s Javits Center, aptly named ‘FanaticsFest.’ Scheduled for an August premiere from the 16th to the 18th, the fest is aimed at integrating the contagious spirit of fandom with the refined art of collecting, and of course, a doze of contemporary culture. But that’s merely the starting whistle; there are more gameplays in Fanatics’ playbook.
Fanatics has planned to shift its event focus towards collectibles in Orlando, FL, from November 1-3. Moreover, a more laid-back gathering is shceduled at PNC Park, Pittsburgh, on September 28-29. The heart-warming setup is designed specifically to bridge the distance between local fans and their region’s athletes through autograph sessions.
But the game plan doesn’t end there. Fanatics’ large-scale vision includes regional events, collaborations with major sports leagues, and an impressive array of stadium-specific happenings, particularly during big-league sporting events like drafts. The Nitty-gritty of these monumental events will be disclosed in subsequent announcements.
On the opposing team, Topps is all geared to keep collectors on their toes, strategizing a series of captivating promotions. Back after a hiatus, Trading Card Day is scheduled for August 3, bringing free card packs to hobbyist shops. The fall season will welcome back the MVP Buyback program, delighting collectors with opportunities to exchange their recent MLB MVPs cards for store credit.
Further expanding the field of collectibles trading, Topps is ready for a second season of the seemingly successful ‘Hobby Rip Night’ on September 14. Last year’s frenzy resulted in record sales for 18 percent of the stores. Adding a dash of digital, the brand-new ‘Hobby Break Night’ is lined up for December 14. The online event is designed around a series of live case, box, and pack openings, featuring guest appearances and giveaways.
Together, Fanatics and Topps are pitching the perfect match of sports fandom and collecting – carving out the requisite spaces for sports zealots to mingle with collectors, playing the catalyst for external enthusiasts to explore the world of collectibles, and generally stirring up a fresh passion for sports and culture. The nation is about to witness an unprecedented bloom in fandom that will tie the ropes of traditional sports enthusiasm with the art of collecting, promising a sporting spectacle like no other.
