In the 21st century the rise of trinkets from Asian origins started to become trendy due to the increased notice on social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, YouTube shorts globally. The appeal of the surprise blind boxing led to rising interests upon its consumers. This gain of interest expressed Japan’s “kawaii” aesthetic to represent cuteness and adorableness.
Popularity & Appeal
Popular trinket toys that have gained popularity are toys such as Labubus, Sonny Angels, Smiskis & many others. This has also caused a rise in Asian toy stores in the United States such as places called Pop Mart that have been getting an influx of revenue because of the demand for such toys.
“But it’s outside China where Pop Mart is really taking off. Over 130 of the company’s more than 530 stores worldwide as well as over 190 of more than 2,490 roboshops, as of December 2024, are located outside mainland China, and its non-mainland revenue grew by 375% to 5 billion yuan (about $700 million) in 2024, accounting for nearly 40% of its approximately $1.8 billion total revenue, according to the company’s 2024 annual report, which was released on Wednesday,” Miranda Jeyaretnam wrote for her Time Magazine article, “How Chinese Toy Company Pop Mart Is Taking Over the World.”
The main demographics of consumers are usually young women in their 20s. The product is supposed to be nostalgic for consumer’s “inner child.” The feeling of companionship as well as the happiness when unboxing surprise trinkets also give consumers a feeling of satisfaction.
Rising Environmental Concerns
However, there are negative aspects of these toys and trinkets. These can mainly impact the environmental and financial aspect. Mentioned in UC Ivine’s New University Campus Official newspaper article, “Sonny Angels and Smiskis: The environmental impact of your small friend,” items like Sonny Angels aren’t biodegradable, the increased consumption of the product could potentially cause mass plastic waste. The high demand for these products often lead to fake ones being produced. With consumers buying this as well it increases even more plastic waste for items that aren’t official. Although there isn’t data for an exact amount of waste produced, the amount of non-biodegradable materials can be reduced.
Opting for second hand figurines of ones you desire, or choosing wooden figurines rather than plastic is a good way to reduce plastic waste. Wooden figurines are better for biodegrading rather than plastic material, as wood is a natural resource that can be broken down over time to become reabsorbed into the environment.
Positive Effects in the Community
While there are negative aspects, they’re also positive aspects to look at. These Labubus, Smiskis, Sonny Angels, and others have an impact on the community. Some may say it brings us closer together. People who have a love and admiration for the collectible times can find their place amongst others who enjoy the same thing as well. Connecting through forums on media platforms or even community get together events helps strengthen the community as a whole.
With many of the demographics being young adults, it can be a stressful and hard time to deal with. These toys bring a sense of nostalgia and escapism to their life to enjoy the little things. It can be fun for them to start collecting as a hobby. Other people even use them as accessories to personally express themselves, from keychains to bag charms they can be a personal buddy.
As toys are a fun nostalgic way of escaping the stressful times in our life, let’s remember to do this in moderation. Let’s focus on bringing the community together in a shared interest while also being logical and ethical about these financial decisions rather than impulse buying. Remember there’s other ways of getting a figurine you want instead of using your hard earned money on a figurine that is not guaranteed to be the one you want. Have fun collecting out there!
