Toy sellers have reassured parents they ‘don’t have to spend a fortune’ on presents this Christmas as they revealed the year’s predicted top sellers.
The Toy Retailers Association said it was mindful that 2022 had been ‘challenging’ for many families as it released its annual DreamToys list — those expected to be the most sought-after this festive season.
Of the top 12 toys to make the final list, eight cost less than £35.
The cheapest end of the list includes £7.99 original Squishmallows, the £10.99 Heroes of Goo Jit Zu Goo Shifters hero pack and the £17.99 Paw Patrol Big Truck Pups themed vehicles, as well as the Sink N’ Sand game for £19.99.
Children play with Heroes of Goo Jit Zu Goo Shifters Hero Pack at Fora at Spitalfields in London
Squishmallows at Fora are shown during the unveiling of the annual DreamToys list compiled by an independent panel of retailers which predicts the top Christmas toys for the year
Barbie Cutie Reveal Doll at Fora. The Toy Retailers Association said it was mindful that 2022 had been ‘challenging’ for many families as it released its annual DreamToys list
Those whose budgets can stretch a little further may well be asked for the Barbie Cutie Reveal doll costing £32.99, the £64.99 Little Live Pets — Mama Surprise or the Lego Star Wars Hoth AT-ST for £44.99.
The most expensive toy on the list is the £79.99 Gabby’s Purrfect Dollhouse.
Paul Reader, chairman of the DreamToys selection committee, said: ‘2022 has been a challenging year for many families and the committee took this into consideration when selecting this year’s list, with eight of the top 12 priced under £35.
‘We know many use the DreamToys list for guidance when it comes to making purchasing decisions and we feel we’ve selected the best toys to delight children this Christmas while suiting different budgets.’
Melissa Symonds, executive director of UK toys for analysts the NPD Group, said: ‘Despite the current cost-of-living crisis, Christmas remains a key event for families and a celebratory event to look forward to at the end of the year.
‘With the average price of a toy in December just £13.11, parents and gift buyers don’t have to spend a fortune on presents that will guarantee some fun and smiles during the festive period.’
GiGi the Giraffe at Fora. The list includes those expected to be the most sought-after this festive season
Sand Game at Fora. Toy sellers have told parents they don’t have to spend a fortune this Christmas
Paw Patrol Big Truck Pups Themed Vehicles at Fora. Eight of the top 12 priced under £35 this year
