Topps, a division of Fanatics Collectibles, has struck a groundbreaking deal with Disney Consumer Products to broaden their existing trading card collaboration. This newfound partnership grants Topps universal rights to craft trading cards showcasing legendary characters and narratives from Disney, Pixar, and Marvel, marking their debut in producing and distributing physical Marvel trading cards on a worldwide scale. The extension also sustains Topps’ enduring global alliance with Star Wars, a connection that commenced in 1977 and has captivated collectors for generations.
Launching with a Bang: Topps Finest X-Men ’97
In a move set to excite fans, Topps will unveil their inaugural Marvel collectible trading cards in early 2025 with the release of Topps Finest X-Men ’97. This launch aligns with the resurgent interest in the X-Men franchise and signifies a significant milestone as Topps forays into the global dissemination of Marvel cards.
Uniting for Success: Physical and Digital Offerings
The expanded alliance encompasses both physical and digital trading cards for Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars franchises worldwide. While Topps has previously introduced digital collectibles through the Disney Collect! and Marvel Collect! apps, this agreement substantially broadens their physical product range, particularly within the United States.
Paul Gitter, Executive Vice President of Global Brand Commercialization at Disney Consumer Products, remarked, “Topps has been a longstanding collaborator with Disney Consumer Products, driving physical and digital innovation in the trading card space. We’re delighted to officially amplify our partnership with Topps to bring storytelling from across our brands to card collecting enthusiasts globally.”
Elevating the Fan Experience
David Leiner, President of Trading Cards at Fanatics Collectibles, expressed his enthusiasm for the reinforced collaboration. “At Topps, we are devoted to enhancing the fan experience, and this expanded partnership will enable us to continue working hand in hand with Disney Consumer Products to introduce top-notch innovation in the hobby to collectors,” he stated.
Leiner emphasized the mutual dedication to innovation and fan engagement shared by both companies, noting the success achieved with Star Wars cards since 1977, including the recent launch of Star Wars Chrome by Topps last month.
Past Ventures and Worldwide Expansion
Topps has a track record of producing Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars trading cards within the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region through Topps.com and at local fan conventions. The novel agreement extends these offerings globally, signifying a momentous expansion into the U.S. market and beyond.
Through leveraging Disney’s rich storytelling and Topps’ proficiency in collectible trading cards, the collaboration aspires to deliver innovative products that strike a chord with fans worldwide.
A Sneak Peek for Collectors
Enthusiasts can anticipate a diverse array of fresh trading cards celebrating the enchantment of Disney, the artistry of Pixar, the thrill of Marvel superheroes, and the grandeur of Star Wars’ epic adventures. The partnership is poised to introduce novel designs, exclusive collectibles, and immersive experiences to the trading card community.
This expanded partnership between Topps and Disney Consumer Products heralds a new chapter for trading card enthusiasts, granting unparalleled access to some of the most cherished characters and stories in entertainment history.
