Argos’ top toy predictions for Christmas focus on classics such as LEGO, Star Wars and Super Mario among others.
The time we’ve been spending at home during lockdown has generated a strong sense of nostalgia for our favourite toys, according to research carried out by Argos.
And it seems that this could translate to the toys which find themselves underneath the Christmas tree this year.
Half (50%) of parents reminisced about their old toys at some point during the nationwide lockdown, and as a result, more than one fifth (22%) plan to gift their child something that conjures memories of their own childhood this Christmas.
Argos has reflected this in its list of top toy predictions for Christmas 2020. Franchises that have stood the test of time make several appearances in the run down – and combining classic choices with something fresh and modern.
An animatronic doll of The Child from The Mandalorian – affectionately known as Baby Yoda, the diminutive star of the popular Star Wars spin off on Disney+ – is expected to be one of this Christmas’ biggest hits.
Meanwhile, the collaboration between Nintendo and LEGO on the Super Mario Starter Course has also made the list, giving fans the chance to recreate the iconic platform games in physical form, collecting coins and squashing enemies.
Other licensed brands making the list include L.O.L. Surprise and PAW Patrol, which are appearing for a third and fourth year respectively.
Yet the way they’re being shopped is changing. Last year, 47% of Britons bagged most of their Christmas toy haul online or through a click-and-collect service, while 63% plan to shop this way this year.
Parents also appear to be more selective with their top choices, opting for quality, long lasting items. A quarter of Brits (25%) expect to spend over £200 on their most expensive toy this year, with the LEGO Technic Lamborghini (£350) likely to make wish lists across the country.
Sales of toys costing over £300 have risen 60% year-on-year at Argos, with nearly a third (29%) of parents saying they would buy a toy worth more than £100 if they felt they could also enjoy playing with it, and 59% considering a toy’s longevity before making a purchase.
“With so much time spent inside during lockdown, the nation has rekindled its love for toys, turning to them now more than ever to keep themselves entertained during what has been a difficult time for many,” said Juliet Ward, head of toy buying at Argos. “When we craft the list of our top toy predictions for the year, we always try to accurately gauge the ‘toy crazes’ that are set to make thousands of wish lists.
“This year it’s heartening to see so many toys that will encourage families to spend time together, whether that’s putting together a LEGO Lamborghini or reminiscing over the Mario games of the 80s and 90s.”
Away from licences, other toys on the list include Little Live Gotta Go Flamingo (which comes sitting on its own toilet); Designafriend Sisi doll; Hatchimals Pixies Crystal Flyers; Poopsie Dancing Unicorn; Fisher-Price Rollin’ Rovee Activity Toy; VTech KidiZoom Studio; and Laser Battle Hunters vehicle.
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