The Toy Industry Association (TIA) named collectibles, active toys, robotics, and more as top toy trends of 2017 at the 114th North American International Toy Fair. The session, held on Feb. 19, 2017, was moderated by Ken Seiter, TIA VP of marketing communications with commentary provided by Adrienne Appell, Isabel Carrión-López and Kristin Morency Goldman.
A summary of the top six trends include:
- Collecibles 2.0: Collectibles, which grew 33 percent with $1.8 billion in sales according to the NPD Group, are expected to maintain their popularity in 2017. The trend includes basic and affordable collectibles, ones that have multi play functions, and higher-priced licensed collectibles for collectors and fans.
- Up and Active: Toys that encourage kids to get up and move—both indoors and outside—are on the rise. The trend includes tech toys that weave in active components, classic outdoor ride-ons, traditional games that incorporate physical activity, and digital toys that foster face-to-face play.
- Technology Trends: Toy companies are continuing to incorporate engaging tech components into their products. Technologies that were emerging a few years ago, such as 3-D printing, have become more affordable. This year there is a surge in augmented and virtual reality toys, drones, virtual pets, robotics, and more, according to the TIA.
- Oh So Classic!: Low or no-tech toys with retro and classic styling were some of the fastest-growing toy categories tracked by NPD. The trend includes retro brands that parents and grandparents grew up with and foster intergenerational play to kids.
- Movie Mania: With a wave of family-friendly movies hitting theaters this year, it will be a big year for toys with movie tie-ins. Licensed toys featuring popular characters and stories will be available across all categories.
- From STEAM to STREAM: This year, robotics will be incorporated into the STEAM trend, which is becoming more comprehensive thanks to engaging products that ignite kids’ curiosity.
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