Toy Industry Faces Rising Prices Amid Strong Sales Growth

What's Happening?

In the first half of 2025, U.S. toy sales increased by 6% year over year, with units sold growing by 3%, according to a Circana report. After three years of stable average selling prices, these prices rose by 3% in the first half of the year. The growth was driven significantly by adult consumers, who contributed to an 18% increase in toy sales compared to the previous year. Children aged 9 to 11 and 12 to 17 also saw sales increases of 9% and 6%, respectively. Categories such as puzzles and games, explorative toys, youth electronics, action figures, and building sets experienced notable growth. The report highlights that seven out of eleven toy categories tracked by Circana posted growth during this period.

Why It's Important?

The rising interest in toys among adults and teenagers is reshaping the toy industry, with companies like Lego and Build-A-Bear increasingly catering to these demographics. This trend is significant as it indicates a shift in consumer behavior, potentially leading to new marketing strategies and product offerings. The toy industry is also facing challenges due to tariffs, particularly those stemming from President Trump's trade policies with China, which could impact pricing and availability. As nearly 80% of toys imported to the U.S. come from China, the industry must navigate these economic pressures while maintaining growth.

What's Next?

As the holiday season approaches, the toy industry is preparing for potential price increases due to tariffs. Companies like Mattel are attempting to mitigate these effects by keeping a significant portion of their products priced below $20. The industry is closely monitoring consumer reactions to price changes and strategizing to maintain sales momentum. Retailers and manufacturers may need to adjust their supply chains and pricing strategies to adapt to the evolving economic landscape.

Beyond the Headlines

The growing adult interest in toys reflects broader cultural shifts, where traditional age boundaries in consumer products are becoming less defined. This trend could lead to long-term changes in how toys are marketed and perceived, potentially influencing other industries to adopt similar strategies. The toy industry's resilience amid economic challenges highlights its adaptability and the importance of understanding consumer dynamics.