The New Funko Store in Everett, Washington, is a Gathering Place for Funko Fans

Founded in 1998 in Snohomish, Washington, by Mike Becker, Funko began by creating nostalgic bobbleheads of pop culture icons from the 1960s and 1970s. The company later diversified its offerings into vinyl figurines, action figures, plush toys, and other collectibles. Today, the brand is renowned for its pop culture figurines of iconic characters from television and film. Their products are available online and in stores worldwide.

Its wildly popular, fist-sized figurines depicting the stars of blockbuster films, beloved comic book superheroes and cult favorite video games are a testament to its savvy marketing and ability to tap into the insatiable pull that these properties exert on their audiences. The company’s breadth of licenses — from major hits to lesser-known subcultures — is also key to its success, FORBES reports.

In 2015, the company launched Marvel Collector Corps, a subscription box service that shipped exclusive Marvel collectibles every two months; Legion of Collectors, for DC items; and Disney Treasures, for Disney merchandise. These subscription boxes have now ended, and Funko has shifted the focus of its online and brick-and-mortar retail presence to its line of Mystery Minis.

The new store will be a gathering place for Funko fans to come and immerse themselves in the brand. It will feature photo-friendly murals and larger-than-life versions of some of the company’s most popular branded characters. It will also host a public meeting room where Funko staff artists will donate their time on weekends to mentor and teach kids in the Everett area about art, drawing, sculpting and overall toy design. funko store