Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-07-29 06:01Core Insights - LABUBU's global popularity has positioned PopMart in the spotlight, with the IP expected to reach phenomenal popularity by 2025, becoming a sought-after collectible among fans [1] - The founder of PopMart, Wang Ning, shared insights on the core themes of the trendy toy industry during a deep interview with CCTV News, highlighting the transformation of Chinese cultural consumer brands in the global market [2][4] Company Development - Wang Ning's journey reflects the spirit of PopMart, showcasing his dual role as an industry observer and pioneer, revealing the challenges and opportunities faced by Chinese brands in the global landscape [4][5] - Wang Ning's early experiences in his family's small business laid the foundation for his understanding of commerce, which he later applied to his entrepreneurial ventures [8][9] - After facing initial struggles with PopMart's concept of trendy toys, Wang Ning pivoted to create a platform called Taohuo.com to connect manufacturers and retailers, which eventually led to securing angel investment [13][14] IP Strategy - In 2014, Wang Ning recognized the importance of exclusive IP and successfully acquired the rights to the popular Sonny Angel toy in China, which significantly contributed to PopMart's revenue [16][20] - The introduction of the Molly IP marked a turning point for PopMart, allowing the company to transition from a simple retailer to a brand operator with core IP assets [20][21] Market Expansion - PopMart's successful launch of the Molly zodiac series blind boxes in 2016 attracted a female consumer base, leading to rapid growth in the trendy toy market [21][24] - The company went public on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in December 2020, achieving a market valuation exceeding HKD 100 billion on its first trading day [24] Globalization Efforts - PopMart has expanded its presence in Southeast Asia, with significant revenue growth of 375.2% year-on-year in 2024, driven by localized marketing strategies and collaborations with local artists [28] - In the European and American markets, PopMart has successfully opened pop-up stores and collaborated with local influencers to enhance brand visibility and consumer engagement [29] Challenges and Future Outlook - Despite rapid growth, PopMart faces supply chain challenges and market saturation, with Wang Ning emphasizing the need for strict quality control and supply chain optimization [32][34] - The company is navigating the complexities of the blind box model, which has raised concerns about consumer trust and market speculation [34][35] - Wang Ning's vision for PopMart is to create a lasting emotional connection with consumers while addressing the challenges of maintaining brand value and cultural depth [35][36]