subject: Sales of party toys 'are on the up' [print this page] Sales of party toys 'are on the up' Sales of party toys 'are on the up'
With the recession impacting on the wallets of parents across the UK, more families are opting to host children's birthdays and other special occasions at home, it has been noted. According to a recent article in the Telegraph, sales of some party toys have risen significantly over the last year.
It identified themed plates, bowls, cups and serviettes as some of the extra items that have been flying off the shelves in the wake of the credit crunch. According to Vicki Rolston, children's party buyer for Tesco, active pursuits are often popular among youngsters.
She said: "Boys are always looking for action. Instead of hitting each other they are striking out at something which they have permission to hit."
One children's toy that generally goes down a storm for this reason is the Mexican tradition of the pinata, sales of which have risen noticeably. Spokesperson for parents' website netmums.co.uk Nicola Lammond added that this particular party toy can make a good finale to a celebration, remarking that "boys love doing something really physical at the end of the party".
She went on to say that another favourite game that was particularly popular in the past was pin the tail on the donkey. However, some mothers are worried about the safety of this pursuit, Ms Lamond pointed out. She stated: "If they have the game at all they prefer to make or buy versions with blue tac rather than pins."
With weather reports suggesting the UK could be in for a hot summer, sales of party toys may rise even further as parents seek to make the most of the unusual conditions and hold gatherings for youngsters outdoors. Some analysts have predicted that the country may be basking in temperatures not seen since 1976 and more people may be staying in Britain due to financial pressures and concerns about the Icelandic volcanic ash cloud's impact on travel.
