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Toy Industry Shifts Focus to Adult Collectors

Wall Street Journal US Business •
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The toy industry is undergoing a significant transformation as toymakers increasingly target older consumers rather than just children. Companies are racing to convert streaming hits and established franchises into high-end collectibles aimed at teens and adults.

This strategic pivot reflects changing consumer demographics and spending patterns in the toy market. The trend toward adult collectibles has been accelerated by the popularity of streaming platforms that have revived interest in nostalgic franchises and created new fandoms among older audiences. Streaming hits are now being leveraged as intellectual property for premium toy lines.

Major toy manufacturers are expanding their product portfolios beyond traditional children's toys to include sophisticated collectibles with higher price points. This shift allows companies to tap into the growing adult collector market, which often has more disposable income and emotional connections to franchise properties. The move represents a fundamental change in how the toy industry approaches product development and marketing.