A raft of licensed toys have been named in this year’s DreamToys top toys for Christmas listing by the Toy Retailers Association.
Launched by DreamToys ambassador Helen Skelton, the list is selected by an independent panel of toy retailers and toy experts from small independents to large national chains.
“Every year, parents and families want to get the best gifts they can for their children,” commented Helen. “With so much choice it can be a challenge to make sure you’re spending your hard earned money in the right place for the kids in our lives, which is why I’m thrilled to be helping launch this year’s DreamToys list. The list lets us all know what kids are hoping for this Christmas so we can get gifts they will play with time and time again.”
Licensed toys in the listing include:
- Beyblade X Xtreme Battle Set, Hasbro
- Bluey 3-in-1 Transforming Plane Set, Moose Toys
- Despicable Me 4 The Ultimate Fart Blaster, Moose Toys
- Disney Stitch, LEGO
- Hot Wheels Ultra Shark Car Wash Play-set, Mattel
- PAW Patrol Rubble’s Bark Yard Deluxe Bulldozer, Spin Master
- RealFX Disney Stitch Puppetronic, Wow Stuff
- Unicorn Academy Interactive Rainbow Light-up Wildstar, Spin Master
Research conducted by The Insights Family has also found that spending on gifts for children has increased steadily since 2021 by as much as 35%.
Parents are also expected to turn to the high street for their Christmas shopping as they did in 2023, with shopping in town and city centres up 9% and 10% respectively in Q4 2023 compared to Q1-Q3 that same year.
Tom Williams, ceo at The Insights Family, said: “Despite financial pressures, our Parents Insights data is clearly showing that toys are still an essential part of the Christmas magic in households across the UK.”
Data tracking expert, Circana estimates the UK toy market to be worth £3.4 billion in the 12 months to September 2024. Last Christmas £900 million was spent on toys, accounting for 26% of annual toy sales.
“Despite a backdrop of economic uncertainty, the UK toy industry is seeing a remarkable resurgence, driven by the ‘kidult’ trend and a demand for nostalgia-fuelled purchases,” said Melissa Symonds, executive director of UK toys at Circana. “With these nostalgic adults now accounting for 29% of spend on toys, and categories like building sets, plush toys, and collectibles taking centre stage, it’s clear that toys have a unique power to bring joy across generations.
“As we enter a pivotal final quarter, with 25 December falling mid-week, we’re set for a record-breaking season that captures the magic of play in both young and old alike.”
Want to read more news like this? Simply sign up to our daily digest by clicking here. You can also follow us on LinkedIn and on Instagram (@licensing_source).
