Chimpers Expands to Physical Collectibles via Partnership with 223
Ethereum-based NFT collection Chimpers is continuing its expansion with a new venture into physical products. The project is collaborating with IP incubator 223 to launch “Plush Keychain Blind Box” collectibles featuring Chimpers characters.
This Series 1 collectible, concealed within a surprise packaging, will be initially available exclusively through 223’s online marketplace, with plans for broader retail distribution in the future.
“I’ve built a following of over 1.8 million, but the real goal is turning fans into believers. That shift happens when people can hold a piece of the Chimpverse in their hands.”
– Jacob Timperley, Co-founder of Chimpers, Decrypt
The partnership aims to bridge the digital and physical realms. NFC technology integrated into the plush keychains will unlock corresponding digital assets on the Base network once the item is revealed upon opening. Chimpers NFT holders are guaranteed early access.
“For lifestyle character brands, plush is the emotional centerpiece. It’s what fans gift, carry, and photograph.
– Cole Gurman, Founder of 223, Decrypt
Strategic Expansion
The Chimpers franchise, which boasts millions of social media followers, intends for the physical products to be the gateway for wider adoption. Timperley highlights 223’s experience and network as crucial for future expansion, welcoming new audiences to the “Chimpverse.”
While aiming to maintain the core essence of the brand, Chimpers plans to diversify its product line in the future, ensuring all expansions align with its central universe.
Industry Context
The move by Chimpers mirrors broader trends in the NFT space, exemplified by projects like Pudgy Penguins, whose complementary physical product “Pudgy Toys” achieved significant retail success with approximately $10 million in sales within a year. Chimpers cites Pudgy Penguins as a “trailblazer,” expressing confidence in its own position to achieve mainstream success through this Web3-to-mainstream transition.
Practical Details
The physical keychains are priced affordably. Initial online sales will be open to all users, offering options to purchase with fiat currency or cryptocurrency.
Both companies emphasize that this debut represents the beginning of a larger strategy to bring Chimpers collectibles into physical spaces worldwide.
Source: Decrypt
