When you think of toys and traditional Christmas gifts, what comes to mind? Perhaps vintage boardgames or a classic rocking horse? Here at Catawiki we've seen a growing trend for traditional toys in recent years. From retro video games to tin toys, it seems that people just can't get enough! And it looks like the growing trend towards traditional and alternative toys will continue in 2018. So read on as we bring you 5 reasons traditional toys as Christmas gifts are taking off... (for Christmas and beyond!)
1. Royal Events Boost the Sales of Collectible Toys
2018 is due to be a bumper year for the British royal family. Will and Kate are expecting the third addition to their family in April. Meanwhile, Harry and Meghan Markle have hit the headlines with the announcement of their engagement - with the wedding to take place in May. Our fascination with the royals and all things traditional means that both events are likely to boost the sales of traditional toys, collectibles and baby goods across the world. One estimate suggests that the last royal baby boosted sales of commemorative china and other collectables, toys and books by over €160 million in the UK alone.
2. Superheroes Dominate the Box-Office
In 2017, superhero movies dominated the box office. With hits like 'Wonder Woman' and 'Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2' taking the cinema screens by storm, it's no wonder superhero movies grossed over $3 billion in ticket sales in 2017. And this continued enthusiasm has made its way back to the original reason these superheroes exist - comic books! Popularity of the movies has caused demand for comics and the associated merchandise like classic action figures to surge. Rare comic book originals make for a more unique gift for young super hero fans.
3. The Ongoing Decline of the High Street
Many high streets have seen a sharp decline in the footfall of shoppers this year. Perhaps this is because the options available online are more varied than ever. As people turn away from the usual high street brands, they're looking towards more unique objects like collectable figures, antique rocking horses and teddy bears which can be found at places like Catawiki.
4. High Demand in Places Like the UK
The UK has the largest toy market in Europe and the fourth largest in the world. Part of this growth is driven by collectibles - these toys have grown in popularity by a massive 44% and make up more than a quarter of toys sold and there is no expectation of it slowing down in 2018. It seems the British simply love toys!
5. Our Love of Traditional Toys Will Last Forever
Finally, some toys will simply never go out of fashion. Tin toys, dolls, model cars and train sets are classic and timeless. The high quality offerings from toy making companies such as Märklin, Schuco, Bing and TippCog - who were making toys over 50 years ago - are particularly sought after.
Interested in owning or giving your own traditional toys as presents? You'll find an incredible selection of toys and collectables up for auction here at Catawiki. With new auctions every Friday, there's always something new and exciting to discover! Or perhaps you'd like to make some money from this growing trend for toys? If you own special or collectable objects, it's easy to sell them right here at Catawiki. And with such a raise in popularity of traditional toys? You could be walking away with a very tidy profit! Become a seller and start offering up your toys for auction right away.
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