Funko warns it's struggling to survive

The company cites a "challenging retail environment" as one of the reasons for its rising debt.
 By 
Chance Townsend
 on 
Funko Pop! Vinyl Figures are displayed during 2024 Los Angeles Comic-Con at Los Angeles Convention Center
Credit: Paul Butterfield/WireImage

Funko, the company behind the ubiquitous collectibles that defined mid-2010s geek fandom, is facing serious financial trouble, according to its latest SEC filings.

In documents filed on Nov. 6, Funko raised "substantial doubt" about its ability to continue operating over the next 12 months. The report, which covers the third quarter ending Sept. 30, reveals mounting debt that the company attributes to a “challenging retail environment” — fallout from U.S. tariffs on imports from many countries.

While Funko has secured some loan relief, it remains uncertain whether it can meet the conditions of its loan agreements. To stay afloat, the company may need to raise additional capital, renegotiate its loans, or risk default.


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Even with global and domestic sales dropping 14.3 percent and 20.1 percent year-over-year for the third quarter, there are a few bright spots. Funko reports strong sales for its Bitty POP! line, plans to expand its blind box offerings, and is set to be one of the few companies selling KPop Demon Hunters merchandise this holiday season.

Still, the broader picture looks grim. Many of Funko’s struggles in the filing are attributed to the ongoing U.S. tariffs — now being challenged before the Supreme Court — that have strained retailers. With stores scaling back or outright canceling restocks amid a weakening economy, Funko’s future remains uncertain.

Headshot of a Black man
Chance Townsend
Assistant Editor, General Assignments

Chance Townsend is the General Assignments Editor at Mashable, covering tech, video games, dating apps, digital culture, and whatever else comes his way. He has a Master's in Journalism from the University of North Texas and is a proud orange cat father. His writing has also appeared in PC Mag and Mother Jones.

In his free time, he cooks, loves to sleep, and greatly enjoys Detroit sports. If you have any tips or want to talk shop about the Lions, you can reach out to him on Bluesky @offbrandchance.bsky.social or by email at [email protected].

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