Toys In The News 09/02/2025

This initiative provided at least 200 toys to children as part of an ongoing COVID relief effort. Organizers arranged the gifts by age and gender, using a safe and efficient drive-thru setup to ensure every child present received a gift bag.

Industry experts note a strong lean towards nostalgic brands such as Sylvanian Families and Hot Wheels, alongside popular licensed characters from franchises like Wicked and Minecraft. This year's selections also highlight a trend in imaginative play and DIY-focused toys, as the new Toniebox 2, offering updated designs and interactive Tonieplay, becomes available for pre-order.

A prominent trend observed was the rise of the "kidult" demographic—adults who collect and play with toys—significantly contributing to the industry's growth. Among the innovative products showcased, Sharp Corp's "Poketomo," an AI companion robot, received an innovation award and is set for a November release. However, the industry also faces potential price increases for goods manufactured in China due to new import tariffs.

An Australian man has been charged after approximately 2,500 items, including 1,700 unopened Lego boxes and merchandise from brands like Pokémon and Barbie, were recovered. This substantial haul, believed destined for online resale, represents the largest seizure in an ongoing police operation targeting retail theft. Authorities are advising consumers to exercise caution when purchasing discounted goods online, as such transactions may inadvertently facilitate criminal activities.

Moray Council's trading standards team reported risks including choking hazards from small parts, suffocation risks from exposed stuffing, and the potential presence of harmful chemicals. Authorities are advising consumers to be cautious of unusually cheap or poorly made toys and to verify official safety marks and branding.

Designed for simple operation, it features one-touch functions and an app preloaded with various designs, also allowing users to upload original ideas. This device is presented as accessible for young creators, removing the need for tools to detach printed objects. It is currently featured among Labor Day sales for those considering a 3D printer.

These 15-inch character plush toys, which included figures like Mayor McCheese and Officer Big Mac, had a limited release before being superseded by plastic versions. This rarity contributes to their market worth today, with some lesser-known characters commanding higher prices than more widely recognized ones. For example, a Mayor McCheese plush toy has been listed for over $200 on eBay.

Global toy sales across G12 countries rose by 7% to $27.5 billion in the first half of 2025, largely due to this demographic, reversing previous market declines. Experts cite nostalgia, community connection, and the appeal of collectible items like Pop Mart’s Labubu as key motivators for these adult purchasers. This trend indicates a strong and evolving segment for the future of toys.

The upcoming film will reportedly explore the digital age and children's increasing reliance on technology, featuring a children's tablet named LilyPad as the primary antagonist and a potty training toy called Smarty Pants, voiced by Conan O'Brien. Additionally, an army of Buzz Lightyears who are unaware they are toys will appear, and Jessie the cowgirl is set to have a more central role. "TOY STORY 5" is currently scheduled for release on June 19, 2026.

These imitation toys pose significant safety risks, including choking hazards from easily detached parts and the potential presence of harmful chemicals from unverified materials. Authorities advise consumers to purchase only from official retailers, checking for genuine product features like a holograph sticker and scannable QR code to avoid unlicensed sources. Anyone concerned they have purchased a dangerous toy should prevent children from playing with it and report it to Trading Standards.

Children aged 6-8 years are anticipated to represent the largest consumer segment, while smartphones will serve as the leading interfacing device. This growth is primarily fueled by the increasing demand for interactive, AI-powered, and educational toys, alongside continued advancements in technologies such as augmented reality and IoT capabilities. Manufacturers are focusing on integrating next-generation technologies and enhancing safety features to meet evolving consumer preferences.

The selection features two Star Wars products: Hasbro’s Power Crystal Lightsaber, known for its customizable kyber crystals, and the LEGO Wicket the Ewok Buildable Figure, an Argos exclusive. Other LEGO entries include the LEGO Disney Lucky & Penny 101 Dalmatians Puppies Set and the LEGO Fortnite Klombo Figure. Chantal Pearce, Head of Toy Buying at Argos, indicated that the list aims to capture current play trends and children's imaginations.

The £80 Bluey dolls house is anticipated to top wish lists for preschoolers, reflecting a broader trend of TV and movie character-inspired toys dominating sales, including items from Gabby’s Dollhouse and Star Wars. Other notable inclusions feature interactive options like the Jurassic World hatching dino and the Instant Print Tablet, alongside new Lego sets, offering a mix of innovation and established favorites.