The first-ever Building Our Future Conference brought toy makers from all over the world to project the toy trends ten years from now. Their predictions were published in the toy industry publication 'Playthings' and are as follows:
1. Racial authenticity or avoidance (either accurate racial minority portrayals or non-human likenesses such as plush animals).
2. Inter-generational use
3. Classic board game play
4. Web-based enhancement
5. Peer-to-peer marketing
6. Global marketing
Implications - Predicting fads is an excellent way for businesses within all industries to stay ahead of the game and remain cutting-edge in comparison to their competitors. By anticipating upcoming fashions and fads, a business can ensure they are the first to be innovative and to catch on to the next big thing.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Racial Authenticity or Avoidance
- Opportunity for toy makers to create accurate racial minority portrayals or non-human likenesses to appeal to a diverse audience.
- Inter-generational Use
- Potential for toy makers to design toys that can be enjoyed by multiple generations, fostering bonding and nostalgia.
- Web-based Enhancement
- Opening for toy makers to integrate online elements into their products, enhancing the play experience and connecting with digital-savvy consumers.
Where This Applies
- Toy Manufacturing
- Toy manufacturers can leverage the trend of racial authenticity or avoidance to create inclusive and diverse toy products that resonate with a wider consumer base.
- Family Entertainment
- In the inter-generational use trend, family entertainment companies have the opportunity to create experiences and products that bring different age groups together for shared fun and enjoyment.
- Technology
- Tech companies can explore the web-based enhancement trend to develop innovative digital solutions that complement and enhance traditional toy experiences.
