Five toy categories worth getting right first

If you are deciding what to put into a limited amount of shelf space, these five categories are the ones worth getting right before you widen the range.

1. Friction and pull-back cars

The easiest thing in the range to explain to a customer: push it, let go, it runs. They suit a wide age band, they appeal across the board, and the price sits where a parent says yes without much deliberation. Stock a mix of models rather than depth in any one.

2. Slime and squeeze toys

Pure impulse, and the part most counters underestimate is that slime is a consumable. It dries out, it gets thrown away, and the child who bought it comes back. Keep it at the till and keep it visible.

3. Balls and fidget toys

Bounce balls, rattle balls, catch games and fidget pieces move steadily rather than in spikes. They are also the most forgiving category to hold, because they do not date. An unsold ball this month is still perfectly saleable next year.

4. Plush and animal toys

Slower per unit, but this is what carries the gift trade. When someone walks in needing a present in the next ten minutes, they reach for plush. Two or three good pieces at the top of your range will earn their place.

5. Light and sound novelties

Anything that lights up or makes a noise sells itself from a display. The catch is battery life and returns, so favour items where the cells are replaceable and the housing is properly sealed. Treat these as anchors rather than volume.

What we would leave until later

Building sets, collectible cards and anything requiring assembly are worth adding once you know your customer, but they turn more slowly and are harder to display in a small space. Get the five above working first, then widen.

Browse by category: Cars & Vehicles, Slime & Squishies, Balls & Fidget Toys and Plush & Animal Toys.