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"People in our showrooms have recently been drawn to the simpler “classic” plush bears.. We’ve also done well in some areas with our over-sized bears—the giant plush bears are almost 5 feet tall! As a result, many are sold to gift stores for use as in-store displays. Some even make their way into the rooms of some very lucky children!”
—Steve Rose, Burton + Burton
“People still are looking for functional plush. Brights are popular as well as traditional colorations, especially for baby.”
— Sandy Willens, Bestever
“Over the last year there has been a trend toward using more environmentally-friendly fabrics. Companies are now designing plush out of organic cotton and other more environmentally conscious materials. That trend is going to continue as plush companies strive toward using more environmentally sustainable components. These types of products are answering a need in the market as the consumer is looking for safe and healthy toys for their children.”
— Will Coleburn for Mary Meyer Stuffed Toys
“The trend we are seeing is plush combined with another item that is either functional or the perfect keepsake, as part of a set. Colors we are seeing, aside from traditional gender-specific ones, are sage greens, ivory and brown.”
—Jennifer Fallon, Baby Aspen
“‘Green’ natural fabrics, deconstructed mixed fabrics, pure hues, monster designs, Web-related plush, plush that accompanies literature.”
— Erika Radich, Douglas Company
“Character styling and brighter colors are important in the plush industry this year.”
— Paul Roche, Aurora World Inc.
“Return to retro and classics; eco-friendly.”
— Laura Perks, Kids Preferred LLC
“We are seeing more of a trend toward natural fabrics and colors. Our natural and chocolate brown products sell more than lavender and other colors.”
— Karen McKee, Warm Buddy Company
“This year’s new releases of plush include vibrant, almost neon-like colors.”
— Alita Friedman , Ugly Dolls
“The trends of dressed plush tend to follow that of the fashion and interior design industry. The colors and styles that are popular and trendy at the moment are most of the times what sells the best in the dressed plush industry. This year we are noticing more people are buying the brighter colors. Right now bright pinks, blues, and greens are very popular, as well as the combination of pink and chocolate brown and turquoise blue and chocolate brown. In undressed plush, people are going for soft and cuddly. We find the softer the material the more appealing it is to our customers.”
—Alicia Ariza, Bearington Collection
“Trends in the plush industry are the use of brighter colors as well as more humorous pieces. The plush industry is leaning toward product that is upbeat, humorous and funny. A “feel good” plush trend is definitely on its way.”
—Maureen Gonzales, PBC International Inc.
“We see the addition of bright pastels that complement the traditional pastel pinks and blues. We also recognize the growing popularity of plush toys that incorporate sound and motion.”
—Shallu Chhabra, Gund
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| Jul 27 - 29 Rosemont, IL | Craft & Hobby Association 2010 Summer Convention & Trade Show |
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