While consumers are on vacation and enjoying their summer breaks at the beach with friends and family, retailers everywhere are already starting to think about holiday readiness. Toys R’ Us has announced they will re-open a few stores this coming fall, and with mass retailers such as Amazon and Walmart working around the clock to be the first choice, it’s time for indie retailers to step in and keep up with the pace.
According to U.S. statistics, the forecasted revenue for the Toys & Games segment is expected to be $32.362 million in 2019. The market is expected to grow annually by 0.5% from 2019 to 2023. The most popular category will be Video Game Consoles, equaling about $7 million, while Toys for Toddlers & Kids and Construction Sets & Models follow close behind at about $6 million each.
A Global Industry Analyst from NPD Group said in a post that Harry Potter is expected to be a huge hit for toy sales this year. In the U.S., the gains over the 12 months ending April 2019 makes Harry Potter the second largest toy license gain in the market behind Jurassic World, both of which had movies. Harry Potter has climbed from #79 to #7 as a toy license in the 13 global toy markets since April 2018, with retail sales topping $340 million in the 12 months ending April 2019, according to the post.
These are some trends to keep in mind as retailers are looking for the most popular toys and categories for the upcoming holiday season. Independent Retailer has some trending toys in big categories to keep on the lookout for, and to win your customers over during the shopping craziness.
Wooden Balance Bike from London-Kate
One of their best sellers, this classy bike is perfect for helping to develop coordination and balance for toddlers and younger kids. Give your customers the option of a beautifully designed wooden bike with airless tires to help eliminate the fear of falling. They also have a pink version for little girls.
London-Kate
londonkate.faire.com
Tel.: 208-351-9313
All Time Favorite Games from S&S Worldwide
Board games are one of the best ways to get the whole family together and having fun, especially during the holiday season. Let your customers choose from a variety of classic, beloved board and card games to gift or keep for the family to use.
S&S Worldwide
www.ssww.com
Tel.: 1-800-288-9941
Bright Eyes from Valley Supply, Inc.
These adorable stuffed animals have large eyes to capture the hearts of your customers and their kids. These 8 1/2″ plush animals come in a variety of plush animals including monkeys, giraffes, bears, tigers, cats, dogs, pigs, cows and more. They sell great and are priced affordably.
Valley Supply, Inc.
valleysupplyinc.com
Tel.: 888-319-6652
Harry Potter Uno Cards from Empire Discount
Give your customers their Harry Potter fix with this fun edition of the UNO card game. It features images of Hermione, Harry, Ron, and other characters from the magical world. A wonderful addition to this game: there’s a Sorting Hat card that makes another player of your choice keep drawing cards until they get a Gryffindor card!
Empire Discount
www.empirediscount.net
Tel.: 914-684-1455
Electric Cars from Redcat Racing
Redcat Racing offers a wide variety of electric car models that will have your customers drooling in the aisle. Each car is super durable and can drive on select tough surfaces. They also sell some popular add-ons to their cars so your customers can customize them how they like.
Redcat Racing
www.redcatracing.com
Tel.: 602-454-6445