Why Are Squishmallows so Expensive?
Squishmallows, the adorable and cuddly plush toys, have gained immense popularity worldwide in recent years. Given their delightful designs and irresistibly soft and huggable texture, it is hardly astonishing that these toys have emerged as highly coveted items in the market.
Let’s find out some information why these toys are so expensive, check the details stated as under:
Squishmallows 14-Inch Tycho Blue and White Parakeet
Why is Squishmallow Expensive? More Valid Information
1. Limited Edition Releases:
Squishmallows frequently introduce limited edition designs that are exclusively available in stores for a short period. These limited releases create a sense of urgency and frenzy among fans, prompting them to rush and purchase these exclusive items before they vanish from the market.
Moreover, these limited edition toys often gain value over time, becoming valuable collectibles. The increased worth of these rare releases contributes to the overall higher cost of Squishmallows.
2. Huge Spike in Demand:
The high demand for Squishmallows among both younger and older audiences is a primary factor contributing to their expensive nature. This surge in popularity has created a scarcity of supply, resulting in increased prices.
As the number of people seeking to purchase Squishmallows as gifts or collectibles continues to rise, the demand consistently surpasses the available supply, leading to further price escalation.
3. Quality Materials:
Squishmallows are crafted using premium-quality materials such as polyester and microbeads. These materials impart a soft and plush feel to the toys, ensuring their longevity surpasses that of many other plush toys in the market.
The employment of such high-quality materials enhances the price point of Squishmallows, making them a worthwhile investment for those seeking long-lasting companions.
4. Offers a Diverse Range of Products:
One of the reasons Squishmallows have become so famous is due to the wide range of products they offer. Kelly Toys, the company behind Squishmallows, took a unique approach by developing a large cast of characters for the Squishmallow line-up.
Each character belongs to a specific clan, and there are numerous Squishmallows within each clan. Currently, there are over 800 different Squishmallows available in the market, catering to various preferences and tastes.
From large Squishmallows that reach over 2 feet in height to palm-sized ones that are 3-4 inches tall, there is something for everyone. However, due to their popularity, certain Squishmallows may become challenging to find as they quickly sell out.
5. Handmade Production:
The meticulous handmade production of many Squishmallows adds a unique touch and increases the value of each toy. This production process requires more time and labor compared to the mass production methods used for other toys, leading to higher costs.
The handmade nature of these toys enables finer details and enhanced craftsmanship, resulting in superior quality. The meticulous attention to details play a significant role in driving up the overall cost of the toy, thus elevating its desirability among collectors and individuals in search of an exceptionally unique item.
6. Propler Licensing Required:
Squishmallows offer a range of features inspired by beloved films, television shows, and video games.
The inclusion of these popular licenses contributes to the cost of the toy but also presents fans with the opportunity to acquire a representation of their favorite series or character for their collection. For example, if a Squishmallow features a character from a well-known Disney movie, the licensing fee associated with the use of that character adds to the toy’s price.
This additional expense is then passed on to customers, thereby providing an explanation for the higher price point of Squishmallows compared to other plush toys
7. Shipping and Logistics:
The elevated price of Squishmallows stems from various contributing factors, particularly when purchasing them through online channels. The cost of Squishmallows can be influenced by factors such as location, weight, and size.
Additionally, the inclusion of these additional charges further accentuates the already high price associated with Squishmallows, making them significantly more expensive. Consequently, the resulting costs exhibit considerable variability.
The incorporation of these extra fees invariably amplifies the price associated with Squishmallows, rendering them a more costly option when compared to plush toys that do not necessitate shipment.
8. Brand Recognition:
Squishmallows have earned a well-deserved reputation for their high quality and extreme cuteness, making them a must-have item among fans. The brand recognition associated with the Squishmallow line plays a significant role in their higher price point.
Numerous consumers demonstrate a willingness to pay a premium in order to acquire a coveted item from this esteemed brand and augment their personal collection.
Moreover, the exceptional reputation Squishmallows have contributed to their higher price point in comparison to other plush toys that may possess comparable attributes but lack the same degree of brand recognition.
9. Positive Impact on Health:
Squishmallows have been credited with providing emotional and mental benefits, particularly in terms of trauma rehabilitation and sensory stimulation.
Many casual users and collectors have shared their experiences on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, highlighting how Squishmallows have helped them cope with trauma and promote a more positive outlook.
While the exact mechanism behind this remains unclear, the soft and comforting nature of Squishmallows seems to provide a sense of emotional support and well-being.
10. The Craze for Collecting:
In addition to the potential emotional benefits, there is also a profit-driven reason behind the popularity of collecting Squishmallows. Similar to the Beanie Baby craze of the 1990s, the artificial scarcity of Squishmallows has driven up prices on the secondary market.
Squishmallows that retail for ten to fifteen dollars can be resold online for much higher prices, sometimes reaching up to thirty dollars or more. Platforms like Mercari have become popular for Squishmallow resale, allowing individuals to buy and sell Squishmallows for a profit.
11. Limited Models:
Kelly Toys has employed various supply strategies to increase market demand and create a sense of urgency among Squishmallow enthusiasts. One of these strategies involves releasing limited-time production runs, where certain Squishmallows are only available for a limited period.
Some models were discontinued without prior announcement, adding to their exclusivity and desirability. When a limited model is announced, the demand for it increases, leading to faster sell-outs.
12. Unique Varieties:
Squishmallows stand out with their unique and diverse designs. While all Squishmallows follow the Japanese kawaii aesthetic, they draw inspiration from different sources, including creatures, locations, plants, and ideas.
This wide variety of designs appeals to collectors and fans who seek to acquire Squishmallows representing their favorite themes. An app has even been developed to help users keep track of their collection and identify which Squishmallows they still need to acquire.
13. Social Media Influence:
Social media has played a significant role in the rise of Squishmallows’ fame. Starting in 2017, Squishmallows began gaining popularity, but it was during the outbreak and shortly after that they experienced a surge in attention.
TikTok celebrities and social media influencers started creating videos showcasing their Squishmallows, which quickly garnered millions of views. This increased demand, combined with limited supply, led to people spending hours searching for Squishmallows in stores. Social media influencers also shared tips and information on where to find Squishmallows, contributing to the hype surrounding these plush toys.
Conclusion:
There are several factors that contribute to the higher cost of Squishmallows, including high demand, limited edition releases, quality materials, handmade production, popular licensing, shipping and logistics, as well as brand recognition.
The combination of these factors makes Squishmallows an expensive item when compared to similar plush toys available in the market. Whether you are a fan of these adorable toys or simply curious about their popularity, understanding these factors sheds light on the reasons behind their premium price.
