The trading card hobby is set to undergo significant changes with the news that Fanatics has acquired the trading card licenses for the major professional sports leagues in the United States, including the NBA, NFL, and MLB. Fanatics is a major player in the sports merchandise industry and has the resources and expertise to make significant changes to the trading card market.
One major change that could come with Fanatics' acquisition of the trading card licenses is a shift in the way cards are distributed and sold. Currently, trading cards are typically distributed through hobby shops and retail stores, but Fanatics may opt to sell cards directly to consumers through their own channels. This could potentially lead to a more streamlined distribution process, but it could also limit the availability of cards in physical stores.
Another potential change could be a shift towards more high-end, premium products. Fanatics has already indicated that they plan to focus on quality over quantity, and they may look to create more limited-edition, high-value sets that cater to serious collectors. However, this could also lead to higher prices and make it more difficult for casual collectors to participate in the hobby.
It's also possible that Fanatics' entry into the trading card market could attract new fans and collectors to the hobby. As a major player in the sports industry, Fanatics has the ability to reach a wide audience and promote the hobby to new fans.
Overall, the impact of Fanatics' acquisition of the trading card licenses is still uncertain, but it's clear that the hobby is set to undergo significant changes in the coming years.