This year's top Christmas toys – Verkkokauppa.com predicts strong sales despite the current economic climate
Press release, November 8, 2022
This Christmas, shoppers are looking for escapism and joy through toys, according to Verkkokauppa.com, Finland's largest toy retailer. Sales data reveals that plushies and interactive toys are particularly popular this year. With toy sales expected to remain high, it's best to shop for gifts early.
Verkkokauppa.com sales data shows that over half of annual toy sales occur during November and December, a trend expected to continue this year.
“This autumn, many are paying closer attention to prices. However, the challenging economic situation isn't affecting toy sales as strongly as other consumer goods. Parents want to create a traditional Christmas for their children, and toys offer great options even on a smaller budget,” says Verkkokauppa.com Product Manager Essi Tyson-Fyhr.
Toys for adults have become a permanent fixture in everyday life. Among major manufacturers, LEGO in particular has significantly expanded its range for adults. For enthusiasts, sets like the Vincent van Gogh – The Starry Night allow builders to create a piece of art that doubles as home decor.
“In the current global climate, people are seeking escapism and a break from screens. Toys and games provide a way to switch off from the world's worries and focus on just one thing,” Tyson-Fyhr continues.
Plush toys and characters from hit series on the rise
Plush toy sales have surged this year. Squishmallows, popularized on TikTok, are predicted to be a major hit. Toys based on children's series also remain popular: alongside favorites like PAW Patrol and Peppa Pig, Netflix's Gabby's Dollhouse is quickly gaining ground.
“Gabby's Dollhouse is a perfect example of how a children's show translates seamlessly into toys. These products are already massive hits globally, and we're seeing the same trend in Finland. The dollhouse is sure to be one of this year's most wanted gifts,” says Verkkokauppa.com Category Manager Laura Haagmann.
Interactive toys that respond to play are also highly popular. With the Magic Mixies Cauldron, children can conjure up their own plush companion. The My Fuzzy Friends Moji Labradoodle mimics a real puppy, responding to voice and touch with lifelike tricks. Meanwhile, the twerking Tan Tan the Orangutan brings a social media-inspired fidget vibe to the mix.
“The biggest innovations in the toy industry are currently happening in the interactive category. Advanced technology is being integrated into children's play, successfully competing with screen time for their attention,” Haagmann says.
Verkkokauppa.com Forecast: Top 10 Hit Toys for Christmas 2022
By analyzing previous years' favorites and current pre-sale trends, Verkkokauppa.com has predicted the top ten hit toys for this Christmas. As Finland's largest toy retailer, Verkkokauppa.com offers a selection of over 4,500 different toys.
- My Fuzzy Friends Moji Interactive Labradoodle
- Jiggly Pets Tan Tan the Orangutan
- Magic Mixies Cauldron Interactive Figure
- Squishmallows Plush Toys
- Gabby's Dollhouse
- LEGO Ideas 21333 - Vincent van Gogh – The Starry Night
- PAW Patrol Big Truck Pups Truck Stop Playset
- Purse Pets Bags
- LEGO City Trains 60337 - Express Passenger Train
- Bezzerwizzer – Party Game of the Year 2022
Additional information
press@verkkokauppa.com (Ulkoinen palvelu)
Verkkokauppa.com
Verkkokauppa.com is Finland's leading online retailer, offering a wide range of products from home technology to leisure and business needs. Operating since 1992, the company is one of the world's oldest online retailers, combining e-commerce and physical stores into a seamless omnichannel customer experience. Verkkokauppa.com's four megastores are located in Oulu, Pirkkala, Raisio, and Helsinki's Jätkäsaari district. To deliver an exceptional customer experience, the company delivers products to your door in as little as one hour, around the clock, using automation and robotics. Verkkokauppa.com employs approximately 600 people, and the company's shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki.
