Labubu,Pop Mart,collectibles,blind boxes,toy craze”>
LONDON, 2025-07-05
The monsters are here, and everyone wants one
From Hong Kong to Hollywood, Labubu’s quirky appeal is undeniable.
- Labubu, created in 2015 by Kasing Lung, has exploded in popularity.
- The ‘blind box’ sales model fuels collectibility and demand.
- Pop Mart’s global expansion is challenging established toy brands.
- Counterfeit Labubus and a robust accessory market have emerged.
- Ethical concerns surround the addictive nature of blind boxes.
Labubu, officially part of ‘The Monsters’ toy range, is a plush or figurine accessory that has achieved unbelievable popularity in recent months thanks to its unique design and clever marketing.
From Hong Kong to handbag: The Labubu story
Labubu toys are sparking a global sensation,but the origins of thes quirky collectibles trace back to 2015. Artist Kasing Lung, born in Hong Kong and raised in the netherlands before settling in Belgium, created the initial vinyl figurines. While moderately accomplished in China, the turning point arrived in 2019.
Lung partnered with Pop Mart, a Chinese toy company, and things really took off.Pop Mart began producing plush versions of the monsters, including keychains. These proved far more popular, particularly in post-pandemic China, as consumers gravitated toward items with a less-than-perfect aesthetic.
Did you know? Some believe Labubu’s popularity is an example of the “Lipstick Affect,” where people opt for small luxuries during times of financial pressure.
The celebrity effect and the ‘blind box’ boom
what made Labubu so popular worldwide? Pop Mart strategically pursued growth outside China, aiming to emulate Lego’s global brand recognition. The brand got a boost when celebrities like Rihanna and Dua Lipa were spotted with Labubu keyrings.
David Beckham even received one from his daughter, Harper, and showcased it on social media. this exposure catapulted Labubu into the minds of consumers in america and Europe.
Reader question:-Do you think celebrity endorsements are ethical when it comes to products marketed towards children?
The genius of ‘blind boxes’
A significant factor in Labubu’s success is Pop Mart’s business model centered around the marketing and sale of Labubu.
different ranges, such as Have A seat, Big Into Energy, and Exciting Macaron, feature various dolls sold in ‘blind boxes,’ which conceal the specific toy inside.The company also releases limited editions, with one in every 100 boxes containing a highly sought-after ‘chaser’ variety. Collaborations with brands like Coca-Cola and Uniqlo, also sold blind and in limited quantities, have amplified the toy’s appeal.
This strategy has led to viral unboxing videos and social media showcases of rare finds. the element of collectibility-the desire for specific dolls or complete sets-combined with the need to purchase multiple boxes to achieve this, has considerably boosted sales.
Overnight queues and the rise of ‘Lafufus’
Demand for Labubu has triggered remarkable scenes globally, including overnight queues for the latest releases. In London, Pop Mart shops twice suspended sales due to chaos caused by high demand.
The high demand and limited supply has spawned a black market, with counterfeiters producing ‘Lafufus’-knock-off Labubus. Some counterfeits are so convincing that pop Mart has added an invisible UV stamp to its official versions.
The less convincing knock-offs raise concerns about safety, as they may not meet safety standards, posing choking hazards. A secondary market has also emerged, with sellers on platforms like Etsy and Temu offering accessories like Prada outfits and face tattoos for Labubu dolls.
Resale market
Labubus sometimes resell for three times their original value, attracting scalpers. Ultra-rare versions command high prices, with a four-foot-tall version selling for $150,000 at auction last month.
The blind box approach has also led to collectors shaking boxes in Pop Mart stores to identify the contents, with some claiming to have perfected techniques for finding rare ‘chasers’.
Rapid fact: Devoted collectors claim they can improve their odds of finding a rare ‘chaser’ by shaking the boxes.
Blind box backlash and Pop Mart’s profits
The blind box concept has faced criticism, even within China, regarding its ethical implications. A report questioning their use on chinese state media last month caused Pop Mart’s share price to fall.
Critics argue that blind boxes, while not unique to Labubu, are addictive and primarily target children. Similar practices are used for LOL Dolls, Funko Pops, Hatchimals, Disney, Barbie, and Lego product lines.
Some view blind boxes as a form of gambling, where consumers pay without knowing the value of the contents. The cost of collecting entire ranges can be high, leading to unwanted products and packaging waste.
Conversely, proponents argue that blind boxes are simply a modern version of lucky dip bags, reminiscent of Premier League stickers, Pogs, and Match Attax cards. The difference now lies in the abundance and expense of collectible products.
Pro tip:-Consider setting a budget before diving into collecting blind box toys. The thrill of the chase can quickly lead to overspending.
Pop Mart, established in 2010, has experienced remarkable growth by selling various collectible dolls and toys, including Labubus. The company initially focused on the Chinese market but has recently expanded globally.
It now has 530 stores worldwide and approximately 2,470 ‘robostores’ (vending machines). While most are in China,around 130 physical stores and 200 robostores are located in other countries,including England and France. Non-China sales account for about 40% of revenue.
Last year, Pop Mart’s total revenues doubled to 13 billion yuan (approximately €1.5 billion),and profits tripled to around €390 million,largely driven by Labubu sales.The success has boosted sales of other toy lines and led to a surge in its share price. Pop Mart’s valuation now exceeds the combined valuations of Hasbro and Mattel.
The company plans to capitalize on the Labubu trend with a TV show and a film, which may further increase toy sales in the future.
China’s cultural export?
labubu has faced criticism in China for its blind box sales model and concerns that the dolls look too scary for children. Though, many view Labubu’s success as a significant achievement for China, as it represents one of the first examples of the country significantly influencing Western culture.
Western audiences have long been familiar with Japanese and South Korean cultural exports like Nintendo, anime, Hello Kitty, cars, and K-Pop. But for a long time, Chinese exports to Europe and America were simply products manufactured for Western companies.
While certain “Chinese” cultural exports, like Chinese food, bear little resemblance to their authentic counterparts, Labubu and Pop Mart represent a homegrown Chinese phenomenon impacting Western culture. This, coupled with the success of retailers like Shein and temu and car brands like BYD and Polestar, signifies China’s growing soft power and its transition from being the world’s factory to a prominent player in global culture.
leading to unwanted products and packaging waste.
Conversely, proponents argue that blind boxes are simply a modern version of lucky dip bags, reminiscent of Premier League stickers, Pogs, and Match Attax cards. The difference now lies in the abundance and expense of collectible products.
Pro tip:-Consider setting a budget before diving into collecting blind box toys. The thrill of the chase can quickly lead to overspending.
pop Mart,established in 2010,has experienced remarkable growth by selling various collectible dolls and toys,including Labubus. The company initially focused on the Chinese market but has recently expanded globally.
It now has 530 stores worldwide and approximately 2,470 ‘robostores’ (vending machines). While most are in China,around 130 physical stores and 200 robostores are located in other countries,including England and France. Non-China sales account for about 40% of revenue.
Last year, Pop Mart’s total revenues doubled to 13 billion yuan (approximately €1.5 billion),and profits tripled to around €390 million,largely driven by Labubu sales.The success has boosted sales of other toy lines and led to a surge in its share price. Pop Mart’s valuation now exceeds the combined valuations of Hasbro and Mattel.
The company plans to capitalize on the Labubu trend with a TV show and a film, which may further increase toy sales in the future.
China’s cultural export?
labubu has faced criticism in China for its blind box sales model and concerns that the dolls look too scary for children. Though, many view Labubu’s success as a meaningful achievement for china, as it represents one of the first examples of the country significantly influencing Western culture.
Western audiences have long been familiar with Japanese and South Korean cultural exports like Nintendo, anime, Hello Kitty, cars, and K-Pop. But for a long time, Chinese exports to Europe and America were simply products manufactured for Western companies.
While certain “Chinese” cultural exports, like Chinese food, bear little resemblance to thier authentic counterparts, Labubu and Pop Mart represent a homegrown Chinese phenomenon impacting Western culture. This, coupled with the success of retailers like Shein and temu and car brands like BYD and Polestar, signifies China’s growing soft power and its transition from being the world’s factory to a prominent player in global culture.
Myths vs. Facts About Labubu Collectibles
Labubu’s popularity has spurred considerable discussion, frequently enough fueled by misinformation. Let’s separate fact from fiction
Myth: Shaking the box guarantees you’ll find a ‘chaser.’
Fact: While some collectors beleive in box-shaking techniques, there is no proven method to guarantee the contents of a blind box.
Myth: All counterfeit Labubus are unsafe for children.
Fact: While some counterfeit toys may not adhere to safety standards, it’s not universally true.
is the Labubu Craze Sustainable?
the toy’s future depends on several factors:
- Market Saturation. The toy market can be fickle. Is there a risk of over-saturation or market fatigue?
- Regulation. What kind of regulations will emerge concerning blind boxes?
- Competition. The toy world is competitive.Can Labubu fend off rival collectibles or new trends?
FAQs About Labubu
What exactly is a ‘chaser’ in the context of Labubu?
A chaser is a rare, highly sought-after Labubu variant that appears in a very limited quantity within a series of blind boxes. they make up only a small percent of the total stock.
Why are Labubu toys so expensive on the secondary market?
The high prices are due to a combination of rarity, collectibility, and strong demand. limited editions and ‘chasers’ command even higher prices.
What are the ethical concerns surrounding ‘blind boxes?’
Critics question the addictive nature of blind boxes, notably when marketed to children. They are seen as a form of gambling.
How can I spot a fake Labubu?
Pop Mart uses a UV stamp on legitimate products. Counterfeit versions often have lower-quality paint and materials.
Where can I buy Labubu toys?
You can purchase them at Pop Mart stores, through their vending machines, or from online retailers.Be wary of unverified sellers.
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