Three key trends in the toy retail industry for next year have been revealed: Toys for Future, Digital goes Physical and Be you!.

The trends were identified by Spielwarenmesse international toy fair’s trend committee ahead of the event scheduled for January 29 – February 2.

Products that fall within the Toys for Future trend are focused on climate protection and sustainability, promoting environmentally friendly behaviour and raising awareness through play, but also comprising toys with sustainable aspects such as ecological materials, or articles that have been upcycled or recycled.

Characters from well-known computer games and e-sports are becoming popular licensing themes – in the Digital goes Physical trend, digital characters enter the world of conventional toys. 

Furthermore, the fundamental principle of the Be you! trend brings together two objectives: to help people with special needs and to promote tolerance, inclusion and diversity. Products within this theme stimulate young minds and motor skills whilst creating shared experiences.

Examples of the trends can be viewed at the fair, which will be showcasing more than 1 million products. Covering an area of 1000sqm, the TrendGallery in Hall 3A will feature products that reflect these trends, giving trade visitors the opportunity to explore and put them to the test.

The TrendGallery will feature on-trend products, new ideas, innovative exhibitors and knowledge transfer.