Months in advance, retailers are publicising the toys they say will be the most popular, most purchased for the 2015 holiday season. What's on top?
- Hamleys: Many parents will remember Tracy Island Playset from decades past--and now, with the Thunderbirds back in the public eye, this newly interactive toy is back in the shops. Skate & Sing Elsa (above, from Disney's Frozen) will also be a top seller, says Hamleys.
- Argos: Minions Tumbling Stuart toy (from, of course, the Minions movie franchise) will be a top seller, along with My Friend Freddie (an interactive teddy), LEGO Deep Sea Exploration Vehicle and Barbie My Style House.
- Smyths Toys: Star Wars-the Force Awakens interactive figures, tied to the new movie, will be a big hit, says Smyths. Also: Paw Patroller, Pie Face and Disney Frozen-theme bicycles.
By the way, how does LEGO keep its innovative edge? As the world's
largest toy marketer, Denmark-based LEGO must continuously innovate to maintain its marketing momentum. The company's
Future Lab is responsible for trying new ideas, testing prototypes with children and using insights from failures to invent even more inventive playthings.
