Brexit and collapse of high street shops blamed for slump in toy sales
Brexit and also the collapse of Toys-R-Us and street toy shops were blamed for a seven percent slump in toy sales last year, skillfully developed said today.
Political uncertainty, the fall in the value of the pound and also the crisis in the shops have all taken a toll on Europe’s biggest toy market that was worth lb3.3 billion in 2021.
But as toy shops close, shopping online still rise and now account for over a third of all sales – 34 per cent.
Opening Toy Fair, the UK’s largest toy fair which showcases the next must-have playthings, chairman from the British Toy and Hobby Association (BTHA) Foye Pascoe said sales shrunk by lb246 million this past year.
The convention in Olympia London celebrates it’s 66th year of showcasing the fun side of life and Ms Pascoe said: “It had been a frightening year in 2021.
“You will find political uncertainties, currency uncertainties and retail uncertainties.
“But play is definitely popular and also the toy industry is incredibly resilient.”
Federique Tutt from the market researchers NPD Group said: “This past year was challenging not only to the UK.
“Sales were down seven per cent however the market is still the biggest in Europe.
“The closure of toy stores was upsetting and the industry must transition.
“One out of four toys sold last year were collectable items which is a rise of 32 per cent.”
But as a parent continue to battle from the digitalising of play time, play psychologist, Amanda Gummer said: “It’s important children have a balance play diet that includes active play, digital play, cognitive play.
“Parents shouldn’t demonise technology, they’re often referring to screen time but when that means using creativity, imagination and playing with others, it’s not bad.”
She added parents should give “clear boundaries” to children and explore alternative choices to suit the child’s character and interests.
Toy makers claimed 2021 is set to be an “exciting year” as Toy Story 4, the very first playmobile movie and The exorcist 4 will soon be striking the big screens with its commercial spin offs.
Among news toys available are a lb39.99 Peppa Pig Stage Playset, lb44.99 Lego Movie Maker set, a lb59.99 Playmobil Tiny Paws Pet Hotel, a lb29.99 Everybody's Best Friend Waffle the sweetness Dog! along with a lb19.99 NERF Rukkus ICS-8 Nerf N-Strike Elite.
Other highlights include mindfulness children’s games, lb3.50 eco glitter sand and mini greenhouses.
By Ben Gelblum and Isabel Dobinson
