Popmart

Pop Mart – from Chinese startup to global designer toy powerhouse

Pop Mart was founded in 2010 in Beijing by Wang Ning. Initially focused on selling small gadgets and accessories, the brand had its major breakthrough when it pivoted to the designer toy segment. Today, Pop Mart is a global giant, publicly traded on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, with hundreds of retail stores and vending machines in major cities around the world.

Iconic characters that took over the collectible world

Pop Mart’s biggest strength lies in its original characters, which have become icons in the designer toy space. The most beloved figures include:

• Molly – a childlike character with an ironic expression

• Dimoo – a melancholic boy with whimsical hair

• Crybaby – an emotional figure balancing sadness and sweetness

• Labubu – a wild, hairy creature inspired by mythology

Each character comes with its own world, story, and collectible series, creating strong emotional bonds with collectors.

Blind box strategy – the addictive formula behind the hype

Pop Mart primarily sells its products in blind boxes, meaning customers can’t see which figure they’re buying until they open it. This approach builds on purchase gamification, where fans buy multiple boxes in search of the elusive chaser figure. It’s a powerful marketing tactic that drives engagement, repeat purchases, and global hype.

Collaborations with art, fashion, and pop culture

Pop Mart frequently collaborates with independent artists like Kenny Wong, Lang, and Ayan Deng, as well as pop culture giants such as Sanrio, KFC, Minions, DC Comics, and art museums. These partnerships result in unique limited-edition collections with strong aesthetic and investment appeal. Pop Mart also organizes galleries, exhibitions, and fan events, bridging the gap between contemporary art and mainstream retail.

Why Pop Mart has become a new symbol of modern collecting

Pop Mart is redefining what it means to be a modern collectible – it’s no longer just a toy, but a form of cultural expression, emotional resonance, and lifestyle branding. The brand connects with a generation raised on anime, streetwear, and TikTok, offering products that combine design, storytelling, and scarcity. This is a new wave of collectors who see each figure not just as an object, but as emotion, narrative, and status.