Selling Funko!: What Happens To A Comic Store When Funko Opens Its New HQ Opposite?

Sunday, August 13, 2017

What Happens To A Comic Store When Funko Opens Its New HQ Opposite?

Everett Comics in Everett, Washington sells a lot of comics and has done for thirty-four years. And a lot of Funko toys. But they are about to get a new competitor across the road. Funko. Who are moving their headquarters to the town, smack opposite the store – and selling their own Funko toys directly, with a 6,000-square-foot flagship store and interactive museum.

The local Herald newspaper interviewed store owner Charlie Knoedler about his impending new situation. Especially from a store that does a roaring trade – even relies on – their Funko toys, making up 15-20% of their sales.

He tells them “We’ve already tapered off what we would order long-term with them until we know how it’s going to affect us. It could have the opposite effect. It could spike sales.”

They have spoken with Funko CEO Brian Mariotti, who says that he wants to work with them. The opening of the store on the 19th is planned to be a grand affair, and Everett Comics hope to benefit from increased footfall.

After all there has already been one benefit that new employees at Funko have brought to the store. They happen to be keen comic book buyers…. and are already some of Everett Comics’ best customers. “You always know when their lunch breaks are, there’s an influx of people and they always seem to be in a hurry”. As for the opening, “We’re going to be here bright and early. We’re going to be set up and ready for those people to come visit us and get them into things other than Funko. We will complement each other.” And so they have a message to Funko fans – or Funatics – “Stop by and say hi to us, too” .

Or, you know, they could just run wall to wall Q-Figs. Not much chance of those being in the Funko store…

Here are the opening details for Saturday August 19th.

Funko’s new address is: 2802 Wetmore Ave, Everett, WA 98201

Ribbon cutting: 9:30 AM Store opening: 10:00 AM. Please do not plan on camping out! You will not be permitted to camp out overnight or line up before 6:00 AM.This will be the first opportunity for fans to see the new location and promises to be a completely new and exciting experience for any Funatic! You’ll walk through the world of Funko like never before – among the figures you already know and love, you’ll also find brand new products, unique activities, and special surprises! The festivities will include food trucks, giveaways, fun photo opportunities, and a signing with the one and only Brian Mariotti! And of course… there will be exclusives available ONLY at the store and ONLY during the grand opening celebration! We have a block of hotel rooms held at the Marriott Courtyard in Everett – reserve your room today!