The New Year is all about fresh starts, new possibilities, and, let’s be honest, a whole lot of fun! And what better way to kick off the year than with a stash of exciting toys that will keep the kids entertained well beyond the fireworks? The holiday rush may be over, but the hunt for the latest and greatest in toys is just getting started. Whether it’s an imaginative playset, a popular collectible, or an outdoor adventure game, the New Year brings a renewed sense of excitement and wonder.
1. Why New Year’s Toys Matter More Than Ever
You might be wondering: why focus on toys for the New Year? Well, think about it. Kids are still riding high on holiday excitement, and parents are looking for ways to keep them engaged as the winter break continues. Plus, many families are using gift cards or Christmas money to shop for things they didn’t receive over the holidays. By offering a fresh, updated selection, you can keep the magic going and make your store the ultimate destination for post-holiday shoppers.
Picture this: a family walks into your store, and the kids’ eyes light up when they see a display of brand-new toys they haven’t encountered before. That is the power of stocking the right products in January.
2. The Hottest Toy Picks from License 2 Play
As a retailer, you want to stay ahead of trends and stock toys that will delight and engage kids. Here are some of the most popular picks available from License 2 Play to kick off the new year:
- Heroes of Goo Jit Zu – Licensed Marvel Characters
These stretchy, squishy, and surprisingly durable action figures combine the fun of tactile play with the excitement of superheroes. Whether it’s Spider-Man, Iron Man, or Hulk, these Marvel Heroes are a must-have for any child who loves action-packed adventures. Place them in a “Superhero Central” display and watch them fly off the shelves! - Bluey Playsets
Bluey continues to be a hit! These toys capture the heartwarming and humorous spirit of the show, making them a favorite among young kids and their parents. Create a “Bluey Adventure Zone” in your store, complete with character plush toys and themed playsets, to attract fans of this adorable Australian pup. - Squishmallows
Soft, squishy, and irresistibly collectible, Squishmallows remains one of the top toys on everyone’s list. They come in a variety of characters, from food-themed cuties to beloved animals, making them perfect for snuggling and collecting. Highlight these plush sensations in a “Cozy New Year” section to show off their huggable charm. - STEM and Science Kits
For parents looking to keep the learning momentum going, STEM kits like the Mini Science Experiment Kit is a perfect choice. This kit turns a simple winter day into an exciting exploration of chemistry, physics, or biology. They’re ideal for encouraging critical thinking and curiosity, all wrapped up in fun. Promote these toys with an “Explore and Learn” display to show their educational benefits. - Outdoor Toys – Funatic Foam and Water Balloons
Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean the fun stops outdoors! Funatic Foam Sets are perfect for active kids who want to get moving. For warmer regions or indoor fun, water balloons or bubble play sets bring a burst of energy to any play session. Set up a mini “Outdoor Play Gear” section to remind families that fresh air and fun are just around the corner. - ASMR and Sensory Toys
Satisfying to the senses and perfect for calming play, ASMR toys like the Craze Sensation ASMR or the So Sand DIY Blister Pack are always a hit. These toys offer a tactile, stress-relieving experience that appeals to kids of all ages. Set up a “Sensory Play Station” where kids can test out these toys to see just how irresistible they are.
3. Setting the Scene: Make Your Store Irresistible
It’s a new year, and your store should feel like one, too! Switch up your displays to feature fresh, eye-catching setups. How about a “New Year, New Fun” theme with bright, celebratory decorations and countdown clocks highlighting limited-time deals? Arrange tech and science kits in a “Future of Learning” area and create an adventure corner for outdoor toys, complete with fake snow or vibrant, sunny décor, depending on your location.
Use playful setups, like a pretend snowball fight zone for water balloons or a superhero battle display for Goo Jit Zu figures. When your store feels lively and engaging, it becomes more than a shopping destination—it becomes an experience.
4. Marketing Strategies to Keep the Holiday Cheer Going
The holiday magic doesn’t have to stop with Christmas! The New Year offers plenty of opportunities to keep engaging with your audience:
- Flash Sales and Deals
Everyone loves a good deal, especially right after the holidays. Promote special New Year’s discounts on your best-selling toys to draw in shoppers looking to make the most of their gift cards. Use playful language like, “New Year, New Adventures! Grab these deals before they’re gone!” - Email Campaigns with New Year’s Resolutions
Send out fun, resolution-themed emails like “New Year, New Fun! Discover toys that inspire creativity, exploration, and giggles in 2024.” Personalize your emails to recommend specific toys for different age groups or play styles. - Social Media Engagement
Run interactive polls asking parents about their children’s favorite holiday toys or post videos of your store displays and toy demos. Share “Did You Know?” facts about your educational toys or host a New Year’s giveaway featuring Squishmallows or Bluey sets to keep your followers engaged and excited.
5. Planning for the Year Ahead
As the year unfolds, be ready to adapt to new trends and customer interests. Consider planning quarterly toy showcases, either in-store or online, to keep your offerings fresh and relevant. Being flexible and responsive to what’s popular will set you up for a successful year.
Make 2025 Your Best Year Yet!
The New Year is brimming with potential, and so is your toy inventory. By staying ahead of trends and stocking toys that excite and inspire, you can keep the fun going for kids—and the sales going for you. From STEM kits to beloved character toys, there’s no limit to the joy you can bring to young customers.
For those who have not already, join the License 2 Play community and gain access to our extensive selection of high-quality, trending licensed toys. Let’s start the year strong, together!