The Rise of Plush Toys in Branded Merch

 

Picture this: a trending Disney kids movie releases and now the shelves are filled with branded merch. It’s not just any merch though – it’s those same beloved characters from the movie that have been turned into huggable plushies. Disney has a long-standing tradition of this marketing tactic! The magic of bringing a film's essence into a tangible, comforting form has proven unforgettable for generations. Now, major brands are taking a page from this playbook, recognizing the power of plush in creating emotional connections and boosting brand engagement.

Building Connections Through Nostalgia

Evoking nostalgia and resonating with their audience is Disney's secret sauce to success. The simple act of holding a plush character can immediately take fans back to cherished movie moments. This emotional connection builds brand loyalty and transforms casual viewers into dedicated collectors. It's a proven formula that has solidified Disney's position as a merchandising powerhouse.

Embracing the Promotional Plush Phenomenon

It comes as no surprise that many consumer brands are taking after Disney and seeing the appeal in a squishy companion. Salesforce with Astro and Codey the Bear plushies in their online store or Dunkin Donuts with their holiday campaigns. They created a stuffed Donut with a spooky spider for Halloween and a Dunkin’ Iced Coffee Plush for anyone who wants to rep their love for their coffee. Taylor Swift’s marketing team released a custom pillow for her Lover Valentine's Day merchandise collection and it’s safe to say Swifties fell in love – you can only find it on resell on eBay now!

Heard of the latest squishy toy craze? These super-soft, cozy collectibles, AKA Squishmallows, have captured the hearts of millions. Their appeal lies in their unique texture, unique designs, and the ultimate comfort they provide. The Squishmallow phenomenon exemplifies the power of plush to create a viral sensation and build a dedicated community around a brand.

 This branded merch approach offers a unique and effective solution to getting your brand’s name out. It’s a strategic effort to bring your brand’s personality to life. Custom plushies can be used as promotional giveaways, employee gifts, or even retail merchandise, leaving a lasting impression on recipients.

Creating these custom toys doesn't have to be an expensive investment either. Most factories often require minimum orders of 300 to 500 pieces. We partner with companies that offer cutting-edge digital printing and embroidery - this creates more flexible options = smaller order minimums. Prices and order minimums are ever-changing but as your brand partners, we are always on the lookout for the best bang for your buck. Don’t hesitate to reach out and together, we can bring your vision to life!