Game manufacturer invests 200m euros to expand trading card production
Game manufacturer Cartamundi will invest 200 million euros over the next two years to expand and modernise its production facilities, driven by growing global demand for collectable trading cards such as Pokémon.
The company, based in Turnhout, has announced that it will invest 100 million euros in both 2026 and 2027 across its network of 11 factories. Around a quarter of the investment will be made in Belgium, with the remainder focused on facilities in North America, Japan, Brazil and other locations.
Cartamundi, a global producer of playing cards, board games and trading cards, reported turnover of 693 million euros in 2025, up 6 per cent from the previous year. Gross operating profit (EBITDA) exceeded 100 million euros.
According to CEO Stefaan Merckx, collectable trading cards have become the company's main growth engine. The category now accounts for 45 per cent of revenue and is experiencing double-digit growth. Cartamundi produces cards for major brands including Pokémon, Disney Lorcana and Magic: The Gathering.
Job creation
To support the expansion, the company plans to recruit around 1,000 employees worldwide this year, including 150 in Belgium. Total employment is expected to exceed 4,000 by the end of the year.
Merckx told De Tijd that demand was being driven partly by young adults seeking offline leisure activities and social experiences. Cartamundi expects revenue to reach 800 million euros this year.
The company said it was prioritising investment in physical card games and does not currently plan major acquisitions.
Founded in 1970, Cartamundi has grown into a global market leader in playing cards, board games and trading cards. In addition to its own brands, including Bicycle, Copag and Fournier, the company manufactures games and cards for major international brands such as Hasbro, Disney, Lego and Mattel, including titles such as Monopoly, Cluedo, Trivial Pursuit, Uno, Risk and Catan.
#FlandersNewsService | © PHOTO MARTIN LELIEVRE / AFP
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