Barbie, PAW Patrol, Harry Potter, Pokémon, Squishmallows and Super Mario are just some of the licensed names which have been listed in the DreamToys top 20 for 2023.
Unveiled by the Toy Retailers Association this morning (8 November), DreamToys is selected by an independent panel of toy retailers and toy experts from small independents to large national chains, and is billed as is the most authoritative prediction of what are expected to be the hottest new toys on the high street this festive season.
This year, the panel expanded its selection from 12 to 20 toys to showcase a wider mixture of ranges. The panel of retailers picked these toys based on the value they bring to playtime, the play patterns they inspire, the emerging trends they represent, or as the hero line in a range of toys that offers price points for every budget. All toys were chosen to provide inspiration to gift givers across all ages and budgets.
“The panel’s decision to increase the DreamToys top list to 20 toys is in recognition of the fantastic range of products currently available in the market,” commented Paul Reader, chair of the DreamToys selection committee. “Christmas is a magical time of the year, particularly for children, and this list provides gift givers an authoritative and independent view on what we believe will be the most requested toys to help make that all important purchasing decision.
“From the year’s biggest blockbusters, tech inspired crossovers and toys that promote sensory exploration through to products that create curiosity and anticipation, this year’s list is a representation of what the UK toy industry has to offer. The top 20 will be highly sought after, so if families have a particular product in mind, my advice is to shop early to avoid disappointment. However, if you are simply looking for inspiration, I’d implore everyone to visit their local toy shop and speak to experts who can help suggest the perfect gift for under the tree.”
The top 20 DreamToys 2023 are:
- Barbie Pop Reveal – Mattel
- Beast Lab – Moose
- Bitzee Interactive Pet – Spin Master
- Cookeez Makery Oven Play-set – Moose
- Fingerlings Monkey Character Options
- Fluffie Stuffiez Large Plush – MGA
- Harry Potter Hogwarts Castle & Grounds – LEGO
- Hot Wheels City Ultimate Hauler – Mattel
- L.O.L. Surprise! Magic Flyers – MGA
- Little Live Pets My Puppy’s Home – Moose
- Miniverse Make It Mini Kitchen – MGA
- MINTiD Dog-E – Character Options
- PAW Patrol Mighty Movie Skye Deluxe Vehicle – Spin Master
- Pictionary vs AI – Mattel
- Pokémon 151 Elite Trainer – Asmodee UK
- Squishmallows 7.5″ – Jazwares
- Star Wars Ahsoka Starship – LEGO
- Super Mario Movie 7″ Feature Bowser Figure – Jakks Pacific
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Movie Pizza Fire Van – Character Options
- Twister Air – Hasbro
Melissa Symonds, executive director of UK Toys at Circana, added: “With more than £1bn spent on toys each Christmas, the festive season remains the most important time of year of the toy industry. Much of this spend is influenced by gift guides, with 55% of parents saying they use toy lists as guides to buy gifts for their children.
“The UK toy industry continues to be one of the most competitive markets for consumers to buy good quality presents at affordable prices during the Christmas shopping season.”
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