There has been strong growth in the global toys & games market with 5.2% expected in 2017. Growth is expected to be even stronger in the forecast period.The global toys & games market is expected to generate total revenues of $98bn in 2017, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5% between 2013 and 2017. In comparison, the Asia-Pacific and US markets will grow with CAGRs of 10.4% and 0.6% respectively, over the same period, to reach respective values of $36.6bn and $23.5bn in 2017.

As the trend moves towards innovative, smart toys, there is strong growth in the market. Increased urbanization and disposable income, especially in the Asia-Pacific region means that more people can afford to buy toys and games and have access to the distribution channels. 

Toy shops continue to be the most popular distribution channel for the toys & games market. Toys “R” Us operates in 39 countries worldwide and although it has filed for bankruptcy in the US, but elsewhere the company is thriving and even expanding in countries such as China and Singapore. Online shopping is becoming increasingly accessible and popular sites like Amazon and Rakuten are multi-national and can ship almost anywhere, although residents of some countries will be forced to pay an extra price.

The increase in the number of children globally, along with an overall increase in disposable income will drive growth in the market. The strong growth will be mainly driven by the Asia-Pacific region, especially China, India and Indonesia. An increase in franchised and technology led products are key to the growth of the market as they are typically more expensive than other types of toys and games.