Fanatics launches new livestream shopping platform for cards, collectibles

Fanatics has launched new livestream platform Fanatics Live, a community-driven app where fans and collectors can participate in live shopping.

Fanatics Live, which launched on Wednesday, opening day of the National Sports Collectors Convention, is currently available in North America on Apple devices, with web and Android support coming later this year.

The new platform will feature exclusive content designed to sell cards and collectibles and “transform the digital shopping experience,” Fanatics said in a news release.

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Fanatics owns Topps and the MLB rights to produce baseball cards. It plans to produce football and basketball cards when its licenses with the NFL and NBA begin over the next two to three years.

Fanatics Live content will include card breaks, limited-edition products, collectibles drops and live streams featuring high-profile athletes and entertainers.

“With Fanatics Live, we see a tremendous opportunity to marry content, community and commerce, and are incredibly excited to officially launch our product,” said Nick Bell, CEO of Fanatics Live. “By bringing together like-minded fans and collectors on our platform, coupled with an extensive network of partners across sports, entertainment and culture, Fanatics Live aims to build a trusted environment for fans with highly entertaining, quality programming where commerce is ultimately its by-product.”

Fanatics Live will work with a wide range of partners, including content creators, sports leagues like MLB and other partners, including SLAM Magazine and Gary Vaynerchuk’s VeeFriends.

Fanatics will also feature it owns businesses, including Fanatics Authentic, Topps and Lids, as well as existing partners. 

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