Barbie, a “Beast Lab” and an interactive digital pet are predicted to be among the many top-selling toys this Christmas because the trade prepares to take an anticipated £1 billion from consumers over the festive season.
The Toy Retailers Association has unveiled its annual DreamToys high 20, with old favourites Harry Potter, Lego Star Wars, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and L.O.L Surprise! nonetheless claiming spots within the listing.
The toys range in price from an £8.99 Squishmallows 7.5in plush toy to the £149.99 Harry Potter Hogwarts Castle and Grounds, while other pricey options include the Beast Lab and MINTiD Dog-E, both £89.99, and the £94.99 Hot Wheels City Ultimate Hauler.
The list is selected by a panel of toy retailers and toy experts from small independents to large national chains, who pick them based on the “value they bring to playtime”.
Paul Reader, chairman of the DreamToys selection committee, said: “Christmas is a magical time of the year, particularly for children, and this list provides gift-givers an authoritative and independent view on what we believe will be the most requested toys to help make that all important purchasing decision.
“From the year’s greatest blockbusters, tech-inspired crossovers and toys that promote sensory exploration by means of to merchandise that create curiosity and anticipation, this yr’s listing is a illustration of what the UK toy trade has to supply.
“The high 20 will likely be extremely sought-after so, if households have a specific product in thoughts, my recommendation is to buy early to keep away from disappointment.
“However, if you’re merely in search of inspiration, I’d implore everybody to go to their native toy store and converse to specialists who can assist counsel the right present for underneath the tree.”
Melissa Symonds, government director of UK toys at information tracker Circana, mentioned: “With more than £1 billion spent on toys each Christmas, the festive season remains the most important time of year of the toy industry.
“Much of this spend is influenced by gift guides, with 55% of parents saying they use toy lists as guides to buy gifts for their children.
“The UK toy industry continues to be one of the most competitive markets for consumers to buy good-quality presents at affordable prices during the Christmas shopping season.”
– The 20 toys are:
Barbie Pop Reveal, £26.99
Beast Lab, £89.99
Bitzee Interactive Pet, £32.99
Cookeez Makery Oven Playset, £39.99
Fingerlings Monkey, £17.99
Fluffie Stuffiez Large Plush, £34.99
Harry Potter Hogwarts Castle and Grounds, £149.99
Hot Wheels City Ultimate Hauler, £94.99
L.O.L. Surprise! Magic Flyers, £36.99
Little Live Pets My Puppy’s Home, £64.99
Miniverse – Make It Mini Kitchen, £44.99
MINTiD Dog-E, £89.99
PAW Patrol Mighty Movie – Skye Deluxe Vehicle, £49.99
Pictionary vs AI, £23.99
Pokémon 151 Elite Trainer, £52.99
Squishmallows 7.5″, £8.99
Star Wars Ahsoka Starship, £64.99
Super Mario Movie 7″ Feature Bowser Figure, £34.99
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Movie Pizza Fire Van, £39.99
Twister Air, £24.99
