The Fan Stand: How Smart Vending Is Changing the Trading Card Hobby

Trading cards are built on excitement—the rush of opening a new pack, the chance of pulling a rare insert, and the stories behind each card. But until recently, buying them meant visiting a local card shop or ordering online. That’s where The Fan Stand comes in. By using our smart vending machines, they’re making cards available anytime, anywhere—from airports to shopping malls and even cruise ships.

This case shows how The Fan Stand is riding today’s trading-card trends and why vending machines are becoming the future of the hobby.

Why Vending Fits Today’s Collectors

Collectors are no longer surprised to see packs inside vending machines. In fact, Sports Illustrated recently highlighted the comeback of sports-card vending, pointing to The Fan Stand as a leader in this movement. These machines aren’t old-fashioned snack dispensers—they’re high-tech, trustworthy, and fun to use.

At the same time, the industry itself is booming. Global research shows the playing cards and board games market will grow from $19.9 billion in 2024 to $31.9 billion by 2030, an 8.3% annual growth rate. That means more collectors, more demand, and more opportunities for vending to step in.

The Fan Stand’s Challenge

Traditional retail has two limits:

1. Limited hours – Card shops close, but the urge to rip a pack can strike at midnight.

2. Limited access – Airports, stadiums, and event centers are full of fans but rarely offer sealed product.

The Fan Stand wanted to change that by creating mini card shops that never close, placed right where fans are already spending time.

The Smart Vending Solution

Our machines gave them exactly what they needed:

• Big touchscreens that display product details, photos, and videos.

• Safe elevator delivery so boxes and packs stay in mint condition.

• Multiple payment options, from cards to e-wallets.

• Remote inventory tracking and dynamic pricing tools.

• Built-in digital signage for new releases and promotions.

Each machine becomes a trusted, self-service hobby shop, always open and always ready.

Riding Today’s Hobby Trends

The Fan Stand’s vending approach fits perfectly with how collectors buy today:

• Impulse rips in public spaces – Packs available at airports, malls, and stadiums.

• Sports + TCG mix – From baseball and football to Pokémon and Yu-Gi-Oh!, machines offer something for everyone.

• Event tie-ins – Seen at card shows and hobby nights hosted by Topps and Fanatics, turning vending into part of the community experience.

As SI noted, vending provides variety—from single hobby packs to full blaster boxes—meeting every budget and curiosity level.

Early Results

While specific sales data remain private, the outcomes are clear:

• Strong impulse demand in high-traffic locations.

• Positive collector reception, especially from younger fans.

• Growing brand credibility, reinforced by mainstream media coverage and event appearances.

The Fan Stand has shown that vending can be both practical and exciting for the hobby.

What It Means for the Future

• Collectors get convenience and trust—they can buy when and where they want.

• Retailers gain new revenue streams without staffing costs.

• Brands enjoy a new way to reach fans, launch products, and tell stories.

Conclusion: Trust and Growth Go Hand in Hand

The Fan Stand’s success proves that smart vending isn’t just a side project—it’s a powerful new channel for trading cards. With technology that protects products and educates buyers, vending has become a credible, collector-friendly option.