“Beyond the Toy Aisle: What’s Next for the Future of Play”

Описание: In this episode of Retail Revelations: Inside the Deal, host Stephanie Beringhele sits down with James Zahn, Editor-in-Chief of The Toy Book and The Toy Insider, for a deep dive into the playful, powerful, ever-evolving world of toys. From nostalgia-driven trends and the booming adult collector community to AI, tech integration, and entertainment-fueled demand, this conversation goes far beyond playtime — it explores the emotion, business strategy, and innovation fueling one of the most resilient categories in retail.

Whether you’re a retailer prepping for the holiday rush, a parent hunting for the perfect gift, or a lifelong toy lover, this episode delivers insider insights that blend heart, commerce, and creativity.

💡 What You’ll Learn

How The Toy Book became the voice of the global toy community

Why nostalgia is shaping today’s hottest toy trends
How technology and AI are influencing the future of play
What’s on the 2025 Holiday Hot List
How brands are navigating supply chain pressures + the rise of adult collectors
What gives industry leaders hope for the next generation of play

⏱️ Episode Chapters

00:00 – Intro
Meet James Zahn — editor, pop culture expert, and lifelong champion of the toy industry.

10:23 - The Power of Play + Entertainment
Blockbuster movies = blockbuster toys. From Zootopia 2 to Wicked, plus streaming hits like Stranger Things and K-Pop Demon Hunters, entertainment continues to drive retail demand.

12:15 – Where Are the Toys?
Mattel, Hasbro, and Funko are narrowing production to meet demand. K-Pop Demon Hunters—once passed over—is now one of 2025’s most anticipated toy lines. #Jazzwares is doubling down on Stranger Things and Five Nights at Freddy’s.

17:40 – Disney Magic
Live-action Moana, Star Wars, and more are fueling new waves of playtime excitement.

18:30 – Nostalgia Reloaded
Pre-orders remain strong as today’s adult collectors embrace the characters of their childhood. Spoiler: the hottest toys still look like the originals.

26:28 – Live Selling
How live selling is transforming toy discovery, access, and purchase behavior.

30:35 – Activations Are a Must
Adventure Media & Events partners with Umi Toys for a standout Comic-Con New York activation — and why experiential is no longer optional.

34:25 – Toys + Tech
Finding the balance between imaginative play and new tech. A look at AI, connected toys, and why shelf-life value matters. (Plus: where Moxie went wrong.)

41:35 – Holiday Hot List
The categories and products every retailer — and parent — should watch. Travel centers get a special shout-out, including smart SKU picks like Five Surprise and Beanie Boos.

47:20 – Trading Card Boom
Prices are high. Trends are shifting. Here’s when to scale back.

49:00 – Closing Thoughts
Why play matters — for kids and adults — and how to stay connected with James and the toy community.


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💼 Connect with James Zahn & The Toy Book:

🔗 LinkedIn:   / jameszahn  
🌐 Website: www.toybook.com

💼 Connect with Adventure Media & Events:

🔗 https://www.adventuremediaevents.com

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