Build-A-Bear and Nintendo have released a collection of Super Mario toys that have the potential to appeal to young children and kids at heart who are drawn to the collectibles with a sense of nostalgia.
The Super Mario Bears include plush versions of favorite characters like brothers Mario and Luigi, as well as Princess Peach, Bowser, Yoshi and a pre-stuffed Toad.
Alongside the collectible bears it has released with Nintendo, Build-A-Bear will also be offering a variety of Super Mario-themed accessories. Since the many characters of the collection can be stuffed on-site, consumers have the option to add the Super Mario Bros. Theme Song to a plush, so that it plays whenever the toy is squeezed.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Gaming-themed Plush Toys
- There is an opportunity for other gaming companies to partner with Build-A-Bear to create gaming-themed plush toys for fans of all ages.
- Customizable Sound-playing Plush Toys
- There is a market for customizable sound-playing plush toys that feature popular theme songs or catchphrases.
- Nostalgia-inspired Toy Collections
- There is a demand for nostalgia-inspired toy collections that target adults who are drawn to their childhood memories.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Toy Manufacturing
- Toy manufacturers can consider partnering with popular franchises to create new lines of toys that appeal to fans of all ages.
- Gaming Industry
- Video game companies can capitalize on the popularity of gaming-themed merchandise by partnering with retailers to create a variety of gaming-related products.
- Retail Industry
- Retailers can create exclusive collections of nostalgic toys to target adult collectors and fans of various franchises.
