Alexis Ohanian launches new app for collectors to showcase treasures
- Mantel was launched to connect collectors through a dedicated social app.
- The app focuses on community sharing while allowing some trading and selling.
- Mantel aims to cultivate a vibrant community for collectors to engage and share their interests.
In February 2024, a new social networking platform called Mantel was launched by Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, Brent Montgomery, a producer known for 'Pawn Stars,' and Evan Parker, former general manager at The Athletic. The app was designed specifically for collectors to showcase their latest finds in various categories, including sports cards, trading card games, comic books, and more. Initially, Mantel was available only on the web but made its mobile app debut on Wednesday, providing users with more accessible features to connect with fellow enthusiasts. With thousands of users already on the platform and tens of thousands of posts shared, the launch marks a significant step in building a dedicated space for collectors to engage in conversations regarding their hobbies. The Mantel app emphasizes community sharing while allowing trading and selling among users, though an in-app marketplace is not on the agenda as the market is already competitive. Instead, Mantel focuses on community engagement, which aligns with Ohanian's background in fostering online communities through Reddit. To enhance the user experience, the app incorporates gamification elements such as streaks, polls, and badges, making it more engaging for hobbyists. Features such as market reports from industry influencers and niche groups cater to collectors’ diverse interests. The founders aimed to create a platform reflecting their passion for collecting, a journey Parker passionately narrates, highlighting their shared enthusiasm among the team. The combination of their backgrounds and investment support from notable figures in the industry such as Candace Parker and Adam Hansmann further strengthens Mantel’s potential to resonate with the collector community. As Mantel continues to grow and new features are rolled out, including private messaging and a wider app accessibility for group features, it remains focused on creating a thriving network for collectors who seek to share their passion with others.