Funko Pop Faces Final Countdown as Collectibles Giant Drowns in Debt
Those bobbleheaded collectibles staring at you might be witnessing their own extinction event. Funko revealed $241M in debt and warned investors of “substantial doubt” about its ability to stay afloat over the next year. The company’s troubles are piling up fast as Trump’s new tariffs, fading consumer demand, and a worsening retail climate have created a challenging environment.
- The toymaker amended its credit agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank in July to waive certain requirements and secure breathing room for refinancing under friendlier terms.
- Management’s turnaround plan spans fresh financing efforts, a tighter focus on mini collectibles like Bitty Pops, expanding Pop Yourself kiosks, and even exploring a full sale.
Pop goes the company: Despite CEO Josh Simon’s optimism about the “powerful” brand, profits flipped from an $8M gain last year to a $1M loss this quarter. The board launched a strategic review to explore a sale, though management admits refinancing and buyers are far from certain. To tackle troubles, Simon’s pushing for mystery vending machines and “quick strike” drops. However, as debt piles up, the era of boxed mascots may be ending, with landfills as their final fans.
