Page 27 - Toy & Hobby Retailer Magazine May-July 2019

THROWBACK TOYS
Many toy brands are celebrating big anniversaries in 2019 and to celebrate these milestones, they are bringing back original- look packaging, characters and design to capitalise on the wave of nostalgia. Parents are seeking out experiences with toys that they can share with their own children, so this trend is set to be big in 2019.
FOODIE FUN
Food and drink items have always been an evergreen trend in the industry, but in recent years, this has gained momentum, with the
popularity of foodie culture and an interest in food source heightening. According to The Toy Association’s Trend Experts, both boys and girls are equally interested in foodie games and toys. The experts also say that scented food toys that smell either delicious or gross will also appeal to kids who can then collect items that appeal to their favourite smell.
INSPIRATIONAL AND ASPIRATIONAL PLAY
Many parents are seeking toys and games that will help build skills for the real world. These toys help enhance learning and help to foster interests which could lead to a career path.
From fashion to IT, the toys give insights into skills needed for a particular career path, while also helping kids to make mistakes without fear, get excited about new areas and also facilitate collaboration with peers.
EXPLOSIVE ENTERTAINMENT
2019 will see a large portfolio of family- friendly movies released including Toy Story 4, The Lion King and the sequel to Frozen. These films mean that the licensing industry will have a big 2019, with licensed toys
and games sure to help bolster toy sales throughout the year.
Hasbro is bringing back the original design of Trolls for its 60th anniversary. Hasbro has also brought back original packaging design for the X-Men figures,
in celebration of Marvel’s 80th anniversary.
BELOW: VR Distribution team at the New York Toy Fair.
MAY / JULY 2019 TOY & HOBBY RETAILER 27