Pudgy Penguins expands Pudgy Toys line to 3,100 Walmart stores, including 30 exclusive toys, demonstrating growth from digital NFTs to tangible consumer products through royalty payments via OverpassIP.
Nationwide expansion
Pudgy Penguins, known for its digital NFT collection, is increasing its retail footprint with an expanded toy collection available at Walmart, the major retail chain in the US. As of February 20, 2024, Pudgy Penguins announced that its Pudgy Toys line would be stocked at an additional 1,100 Walmart stores, making the toys available at a total of 3,100 Walmart locations nationwide. The move marks a significant expansion following the initial launch of Pudgy Penguins in 2,000 Walmart stores in September 2023.
Exclusive toy collection
The new launch will feature 30 unique Pudgy Toys, including Lil Pudgys Igloo Collectibles and Action Figures that are exclusive to Walmart. The toys aim to bridge the gap between digital and physical play, each accompanied by a QR code that unlocks digital traits and collectibles within Pudgy World, an online game based on the Layer 2 blockchain, zkSync Era.
NFT Community Engagement
Pudgy Penguins blockchain technology integration extends to the NFT holder community via OverpassIP. This platform allows NFT holders to submit their digital assets for licensing and receive royalties from the sale of the corresponding physical toys. “The expansion into additional Walmart locations, along with exclusive toy offerings, underscores the enduring appeal of the Pudgy Penguins characters,” said Luca Netz, CEO of Pudgy Penguins. OverpassIP, still in its beta phase, represents a pioneering approach to digital asset licensing and community engagement, signaling a shift in how NFTs are used for real-world utility.
The Pudgy Toys line, manufactured by PMI Kids’ World, was Amazon’s best seller in three categories and received Toy Insider’s Best Summer Toy Award of 2023. The line’s price range is between $2.99 and $11.97. Improved packaging design and the introduction of the Blind Box Collection range of plush toys are among the latest updates to the Pudgy Penguins brand.
Image source: Shutterstock