2017 TOY TRENDS FROM THE NEW YORK TOY FAIR
Attending Toy Fair every year is always fun because it’s interesting to see what is going to be the next big thing. So what are the big trends for 2017? They include “dual-use” collectibles, adrenaline-pumping active toys, awe-inspiring robotics and “movie mania” playthings.
Collectibles 2.0
WALKING DEAD FIGURES
Collectibles were a top contributor to toy industry growth last year (posting 33% growth with $1.8B in sales, per The NPD Group), and they are expected to maintain their popularity in 2017. This trend includes basic and affordable collectibles, collectibles that have multiple play functions, as well as some higher-priced licensed collectibles with intricate styling details for the most avid collectors and passionate fans. Collectible toys help children develop lifelong skills, including social skills (when negotiating and trading with friends), organization skills (as they maintain their collections), and perseverance (not giving up on the “hunt”).
One of my favorites is McFarlane’s Walking Dead. Yes, fans do collect Walking Dead Action figures and is one of the McFarlane’s best selling line.
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Technology Trends
MATTEL VIEWMASTER
Toy companies are continuing to innovate and think outside the box as they incorporate engaging tech components into their products. The good news for consumers is that technologies that were just emerging a few years ago (like 3D printing) have become a lot more affordable for manufacturers, making high tech experiences more readily available at realistic price points. This year we are seeing a surge in augmented and virtual reality toys, drones, virtual pets, robotics, and more. Most importantly, toymakers are successfully leveraging technology to enhance traditional play patterns rather than replace them.
I am old enough to remember Viewmaster but Mattel has
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Oh So Classic!
TELETUBBIES
Along with their high-tech counterparts, low or no-tech toys with retro and classic styling and materials (like wood) will hold their own after a strong 2016 (last year, games/puzzles and dolls were among the fastest growing toy categories tracked by NPD). This trend includes retro brands that are either reinvented or reintroduced for a new generation to enjoy. These toys are appealing to parents, grandparents, and kids, and are a great way to foster intergenerational play.
I am so happy Teletubbies are in. Talk about nostalgia. Way back in 2003, my daughter watched Teletubbies. They are just as cute today as way back then.
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Movie Mania
WONDER WOMAN ACTION FIGURE FROM MATTEL
Licensing has been a huge boon to the toy business for the past several years (capturing about 30% of total U.S. toy sales) and 2017 will be no exception, thanks to a wave of family-friendly movies hitting theatres. From two LEGO movies (Batman and Ninjago) to Cars 3, Smurfs: The Lost Village, and Beauty and the Beast, this might be the best year for movies (and toys with movie tie-ins) in recent history. Expect to see licensed toys featuring popular characters and stories across every single category – including ride-ons, plush, action figures, and puzzles.
I was thrilled to Wonder Woman action figures at Mattel. This movie going to be huge and I am thrilled that Mattel is promoting the line now. Every comic book fan not matter their gender and age is going to be excited to add Wonder Woman to their collection.
GHOSTBUSTERS FROM PLAYMOBIL
My daughter has aged out of Playmobil long ago but I was thrilled to see their affiliation with Ghostbusters.
THE NEWEST CHARACTER FROM THE UPCOMING TRANSFORMERS MOVIE – AUTOBOT SQUEEKS
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From STEAM to STREAM
The trend in educational toys that teach kids important concepts like Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM), isn’t going away. In fact, it’s getting more comprehensive thanks to a slew of exciting and engaging products that ignite kids’ curiosity. In 2017, expect to see Robotics incorporated into the trend – transforming STEAM to STREAM. And we can’t forget the learning component imbued in classic toys like puzzles, memory games, building blocks, stacking toys, and other playthings that teach critical skills like problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking.
Disclosure: NYC Single Mom was not compensated for this post.
The New York Toy Fair looks like a lot of fun and very interesting!