The Future Of Collectibles With Mantel CEO Evan Parker
Mar 23, 2024
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Exploring the surge in the collectibles market and its growth during the pandemic. Discussing building online communities, monetization strategies, and the emotional value of collectibles. Highlighting the intersection of sports leagues, teams, and collectibles, including game-used items and partnerships with auction houses.
Mantel aims to create a positive online community for diverse collectors, going beyond traditional sports cards and watches.
The collectibles market is booming, driven by pandemic interest, with Mantel focusing on user growth before monetization.
Deep dives
Creating a Social Network for Collectors
Mantle, a new collectibles company, aims to be a social network for collectors of various items beyond just sports cards, watches, or specific collectibles. Started by individuals like Alexis O'Hanlon, who created Reddit, and TV producer Brent Montgomery, the platform offers a space for collectors to delve deeper into their passions, interact with like-minded individuals, and showcase their collections in a positive and engaging environment.
Challenges with Current Collectibles Communities
Existing collectibles communities such as old-school message boards or platforms like Reddit lack tailored features for collectors and often present toxic environments. In-person meetups, card shows, discords, and social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook provide varied discussion spaces, but none offer specialized tools to enhance the collecting experience. Mantle aims to provide a safer, more enjoyable community where collectors can share their interests without fear of negativity or judgment.
Future of Collectibles Market and Mantle's Monetization Strategy
The collectibles market, fueled by increased interest during the COVID-19 pandemic, has seen a surge in new collectors speculative investing. While prices have fluctuated, the long-term trend points to significant growth potential, possibly reaching trillions of dollars by 2030. Mantle, backed by venture capital and influential figures like Gary Vaynerchuk and Steve Aoki, focuses on building its audience before exploring monetization avenues like advertising, marketplace affiliations, and subscription services. By creating a platform that welcomes collectors across various interests and offering unique tools and features, Mantle aims to revolutionize the collecting experience and provide a hub for collectors of all types of items.
Today’s podcast is a conversation with Mantel CEO Evan Parker. Mantel is a new collectibles community founded by Reddit cofounder Alexis Ohanian and Wheelhouse founder Brent Montgomery. Parker serves as the CEO, coming from The Athletic. We discuss Mantel’s mission, why collectibles have become so popular over the years, how to build an online community, monetization strategies and more.
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