New Report on Trends in Traditional Toys Available for TIA Members
December 9, 2016 | Traditional toys are in high demand by toy consumers and TrendHunter.com’s new monthly report highlights popular trends occurring within these toy categories. The information, available for free to Toy Industry Association (TIA) members, is the latest in a series of value-added reports from TrendHunter.com offering an in-depth look at trends in various areas related to the toy industry.
“TrendHunter.com’s analysis allows companies to stay ahead of their competitors by showcasing unique products and trends in the traditional toy space that are resonating with consumers,” said Anne McConnell, TIA senior director of market research & data strategy. “Parents understand the importance of play in their child’s development and the role toys play in learning and having fun. The traditional toy trends highlighted in the report address creativity and exploration, and at the same time appeal to the nostalgia parents feel about their own childhood.”
The December report, a total of 72 pages, specifically calls attention to the following trends:
- Sensatory play – where parents are increasingly looking to provide children with simple, classic toys that stimulate development and imagination. Examples include minimalist handcrafted toys, coloring books that focus on strong female characters and paper puppet kits.
- Non-binary figurines – these action figures provide diversity and exemplify a more accurate reflection of market demographics, allowing children to explore different perspectives and experiences. Examples range from inclusive disability dolls to LEGO characters in wheelchairs.
- Nostalgia for low-tech gadgets – these products appeal to parents who are nostalgic for the early days of tech toys. Examples include colorful play tablets, 8-bit block playsets and analog video games.
- Upcycled play – the demand for toys crafted from recycled goods is rising. Examples include DIY cardboard toys, eco flat-pack playsets and sustainable rubber toys.
- Alternative hero toys – the transformation of traditional superheroes into “eccentric” forms that often double as collectible items. Examples include sketched superhero figurines, superhero nesting dolls and Spud superhero toys.
TrendHunter.com has accumulated nearly 3 billion views from more than 100 million total visitors. The data research company helps clients “Dive Deeper,” “Work Smarter,” and “Save Effort” in order to increase the overall success of their companies and brands.
Last month, TrendHunter.com’s report covered experiential marketing trends. Members are encouraged to send topic suggestions for future trend reports to TIA’s Anne McConnell.