Topps, a renowned division of Fanatics Collectibles, has unveiled an exciting expansion of its partnership with Disney Consumer Products. This significant agreement grants Topps global rights to create trading cards featuring beloved characters and compelling narratives from iconic brands like Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars. This groundbreaking collaboration marks the first time that Topps will venture into developing and distributing Marvel trading cards on a global scale, adding a new dimension to its already impressive portfolio.
The partnership between Topps and Disney not only paves the way for the introduction of captivating collectibles but also continues the longstanding global collaboration between the companies and the cherished Star Wars franchise. Having delighted collectors since 1977, the enduring relationship with Star Wars has become a fan favorite over the decades.
The initial release under the expanded agreement will be Topps Finest X-Men ’97, a Marvel collectible trading card set scheduled to debut in the first quarter of 2025. This launch coincides with a renewed interest in the X-Men franchise and symbolizes a significant milestone for Topps as it expands its reach into global distribution of Marvel cards, promising excitement and anticipation among fans and collectors worldwide.
The enhanced partnership encompasses both physical and digital trading cards for Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars franchises on a global scale. While Topps has previously introduced digital collectibles through popular apps like Disney Collect! and Marvel Collect!, this new agreement substantially broadens their physical product offerings, particularly within the United States market.
Paul Gitter, Executive Vice President of Global Brand Commercialization at Disney Consumer Products, expressed enthusiasm for the expanded collaboration, emphasizing the companies’ shared commitment to driving innovation in the trading card space. The collaboration aims to deliver engaging storytelling and immersive experiences to card collecting enthusiasts worldwide, catering to a diverse and dedicated fan base.
David Leiner, President of Trading Cards at Fanatics Collectibles, echoed Gitter’s sentiments, showcasing Topps’ unwavering dedication to enhancing the fan experience. Leiner highlighted the companies’ mutual focus on innovation and fan engagement, noting the success of their longstanding collaboration, including the recent release of Star Wars Chrome by Topps, which has garnered positive reception from fans.
Having established a presence in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region through Topps.com and local fan conventions, Topps is now poised to expand its offerings globally, tapping into the U.S. market and other regions. By leveraging Disney’s rich storytelling legacy and Topps’ expertise in collectible trading cards, the partnership aims to deliver innovative products that resonate with fans and collectors on a global scale, setting a new benchmark for the trading card industry.
Collectors can anticipate a diverse range of new trading cards that celebrate the magic of Disney, the creativity of Pixar, the thrill of Marvel superheroes, and the epic adventures of Star Wars. The collaboration is set to introduce fresh designs, unique collectibles, and immersive experiences, offering enthusiasts unparalleled access to some of the most beloved characters and stories in entertainment history. With this expanded partnership, Topps and Disney Consumer Products usher in a new era for trading card enthusiasts, promising an exciting journey filled with cherished characters and captivating narratives.
