Web3 and blockchain technology powered Pudgy Penguins toyline lands in Walmart stores
Pudgy Penguins’ line of Pudgy Toys is now available in 2,000 Walmart stores.
According to a press release, these plushies and collectibles are “now sold alongside legacy consumer brands, a testament to both the growing popularity of the character brand and its unique approach of developing community driven and owned IP that leverages social media and blockchain technology”.
It adds: “This signals a transformative shift in IP development, as the industry moves to leverage a mix of community engagement, social media influence, and innovative blockchain backed experiences.”
“Since its launch, Pudgy Penguins has forged a unique path, blending traditional digital platforms with the new age of blockchain to offer consumers tailored interactive experiences.”
“Pudgy Penguins is at the forefront of transforming the toy industry, merging unique digital experiences with blockchain technology, like Ethereum and zkSync,” says Luca Netz, CEO at Pudgy Penguins.
“Walmart’s inclusion of Pudgy Toys in their stores is a testament to the evolution of how consumers engage with brands in the digital era. The team spent years developing the Pudgy brand and fostering our community through social media and the blockchain; we’re thrilled to expand our reach with the support of Walmart.”
The Pudgy Toys sold at Walmart are keys to access Pudgy World, an open world digital social experience that is powered by zkSync Era, a Layer 2 blockchain. This lets users walk around, play games, and customise their Forever Pudgy character.
Each toy comes with a birth certificate that allows the user to claim unique traits for their digital Forever Pudgy character inside Pudgy World by scanning a QR code.
The toy designs feature traits based on IP from non-fungible token (NFT) collections including Meebits and DeGods. Since all of the toys are connected to existing pieces of NFT IP, the current NFT holders will receive licensing royalties for each corresponding toy that is sold at Walmart.
“We know our customers are looking for the latest trends and innovation to gift themselves or a loved one,” says Brittany Smith, Vice President of Merchandising – Toys, Walmart U.S.
“Pudgy Penguins is bridging the gap between our physical and digital worlds of play for kids in a really engaging way and their price point is right in line with our goal of providing Every Day Low prices. I’m excited to add them to our assortment.”
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