Global Action Figures Market Outlook (2023 to 2033)

The global action figures market is predicted to witness monumental growth, exhibiting a CAGR of 8.8% from 2023 to 2033. According to the research report by FMI, the global market size is likely to hit USD 9 billion in 2023 and USD 20.91 billion by 2033.

The increasing popularity of several animated series, Japanese anime content, and movies is predicted to be a key factor driving the market growth. The mushrooming adoption of smartphones, tablets, and laptops adds an upsurge to the market development. Furthermore, the growing popularity of action figure products amongst kids and adults is flourishing in growth for the market.

The coronavirus pandemic gave an enormous push to social media platforms and Over-the-top (OTT) platforms. The number of viewers of movies, TV serials, short films, and others dramatically rose during the pandemic. This, in turn, increased the popularity of action figures, thereby propelling market development. The key players in the toy industry are launching innovative products based on the popularity of those movies or TV series.

Japanese anime has gained quite a popularity in recent years. For instance, Naruto, a Japanese animated TV series has witnessed escalating viewership and gained instant popularity among consumers of various age groups. As a result, Naruto merchandise and Naruto action figures have picked up a huge demand in the market.

The rising numbers of viewers have created lucrative opportunities for manufacturers operating in the market. Opportunities such as the launch of premium and customized action figures by key market players are likely to be a key trend bolstering market growth.

Even McDonald’s launches their Happy Meal with the trending action figure merchandise of a movie or a show. The Star Wars action figures launched by McDonald’s in 2008 are still popular among collectors and even bid for high prices.

The market for action figures generates high profits. The increasing number of anime production companies is beneficial for market development. The growing expenditure on online streaming platforms and improving computer animation technologies are expected to foster market growth.

Attributes Details
Action Figures Market Share (2022) USD 8.27 billion
Action Figures Market Share (2023) USD 9 billion
Action Figures Market Share (2033) USD 20.91
Action Figures Market Share (2023 to 2033) 8.8%

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Global Action Figures Market Historical Analysis (2018 to 2022) Vs. Forecast Outlook (2023 to 2033)

According to the previous market report on Action Figures Market, the sales are gradually increasing every year. In 2018, the global market size stood at nearly USD 5.95 billion. In the following years from 2018 to 2022, the market showcased modest growth, accounting for a worth of USD 8.27 billion.

Toys help in the development of children’s cognitive functions. They help the child stay active and engaged. Action figures have always been popular among children and youngsters. The expanding population of children below 15 years of age is likely to contribute to the market’s development. Additionally, the expanding middle-class population and the rising income levels are anticipated to foster growth for the market.

The global market witnessed hindrances during the coronavirus pandemic. The revenues diminished during the financial years 2020 to 21 and 2021 to 22 due to the shutdown of production facilities and disruption in supply chain networks. However, the market is gaining traction and is likely to witness swift growth in the coming years.

What are the Driving Factors for the Global Action Figures Market in the Forecast Years?

The rising digitalization is a vital factor bolstering the development of global action figures market. The growing popularity of customized action figures is creating lucrative growth opportunities for key market players. Furthermore, product advancements and innovations are likely to be crucial factors driving global market growth. The launch of toys with modern technologies such as sensors and GPS trackers is anticipated to uptick product demand.

The expansion of distribution channels is projected to generate multiple revenue streams for market players. The dynamically evolving supply chain networks and swelling e-commerce sales are anticipated to support market development.

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Category-wise Insights

Plastics Material Segment to Hold the Lion’s Share

According to segmentation based on the type of material, the plastics segment is predicted to account for the highest market share. Plastic toys are economical in production. They are easy to clean and can be molded into any desired shape or size.

However, the manufacturers are innovating their product offerings and launching products composed of sustainable plastic materials. Key players are launching silica rubber action figures to reduce their plastic usage and waste generation.

5-10 Years Segment to Dominate Global Sales

According to ourworldindata.gov, the global population of children aged between 5-10 years stood at 1.23 billion. In 2023, the numbers have risen to 1.32 billion. This age group enjoys playing with toys, sports, board games, computer games, and others.

The increasing demand for rare and unique action figure toys within this age group is predicted to bolster market growth. The rising middle-class population and improving income levels are likely to contribute to product sales.

Superhero Action Figures to Remain as the Top-selling Segment in the Industry

The superheroes action figures segment is predicted to continue dominating the global market in terms of revenue. The segment held a market share of more than 45% in 2022. Superheroes create a great influence on children’s minds. The growing popularity of Marvel series and DC series superhero action figures are highly popular among kids. These superhero action toys are manufactured using durable and premium materials. They have a superior finish which makes them highly attractive.

The anime characters segment is anticipated to garner swift growth during the forecast period. The segment is likely to exhibit a CAGR of 9.7% from 2023 to 2033. The growing popularity of comics across developing and developed nations is expected to foster market growth. Additionally, the rising numbers of anime viewers on OTT platforms such as Netflix, Disney Plus, and others are expected to bolster market development.

Offline Distribution Channel Segment to Account for Enormous Revenues and Sales

The offline distribution segment is anticipated to account for more than 70% revenue of global action figure sales. Offline retail lets the consumer to physically access the product and avoid the waiting period that incurs in online purchases. This is the biggest factor for offline distribution channels to result in high revenues.

Furthermore, the structured offline distribution channels across developing nations are rapidly developing. Nations such as Japan, India, and China are witnessing swift development, which is likely to aid market expansion in the forthcoming years.

Country-wise Insights

North America Poised to Hold the Dominant Share

The North American region is slated to witness astonishing growth during the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to the rising inclination towards smart/AI toys and educational toys. The United States is likely to hold the dominant share in the regional market, exhibiting a CAGR of nearly 41.2% in 2023.

The increasing demand for anime characters and superhero action figures drives product sales in the United States. Furthermore, the escalating e-commerce sales and the mushrooming demand for custom-made action actions are anticipated to contribute to the region’s market growth.

Improving Income Levels to Escalate Market Expansion in Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific is anticipated to follow North America and exhibit a CAGR of 10% from 2023 to 2033. The high product demand in nations such as India, Japan, and China is predicted to flourish the region’s market development.

Additionally, the improving income levels and living standards across these nations is projected to uptick market growth in the coming years. The rising population of women workers is driving the demand for toys, which in turn is predicted to aid the region’s market development.

The large consumer bases in these countries and the increasing population of children under 15 years of age are anticipated to contribute to the market development. Furthermore, the mushrooming popularity of Japanese anime and anime action figures is anticipated to bolster market growth.

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Market Competition to Intensify Due to Entrance of New Players

The market comprises several key players and a few new entrants. The market players are emphasizing the rising popularity of action figures. They are launching a diverse range of toys to maximize their market share and uptick their global position. The key market players are expanding their production capabilities to cater to the ever-increasing demand.

  • Mattel launched its new crowdfunded WCW Monday Nitro stage and action figures bundle in March 2023.
  • Overwatch 2 toys from Funko launched three new action figures and a Funko Pop in February 2023. Reaper, Genji, and Tracer are 3.75 inches-tall action figures. They come with weapons attachments, hand attachments, and alternate head attachments.
  • The Lego Group inaugurated its factory expansion in Monterrey in August 2022. The USD 580 million investment felicitated a 33,850 square-meter expansion in the factory. With its increased production capability, the company now caters to global demand.
  • Hasbro launched its new Selfie Series in July 2022. In partnership with Formlabs, the company’s new launch allows customers to create their own action figures. These action figures are 6 inches tall. The figurines can also be customized using their Hasbro Pulse app.

Key Players in the Action Figures Market Report

  • The LEGO Group
  • Playmates Toys Ltd.
  • Hasbro
  • JAKKS Pacific Inc.
  • Mattel
  • Bandai Namco Holdings Inc.
  • Spin Master
  • Good Smile Company Inc.
  • McFarlane Toys
  • Diamond Select Toys

Action Figures Market Segmentation

By Material type:

  • Plastic
  • Silica Rubber
  • Others

By Type:

  • Superheroes
  • Anime Characters
  • Movie Characters

By End-user:

  • Up To 8 Years
  • 9 - 15 Years
  • 15 Years & Above

By Distribution Channel:

  • Online
  • Offline

By Region:

  • North America
  • Europe
  • Asia Pacific
  • Latin America
  • Middle East & Africa

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Projected Growth Rate of the Action Figures Market?

The market is projected to record a CAGR of 8.8% from 2023 to 2033.

What is the Expected Action Figures Market Value by 2033?

The market is expected to reach a valuation of USD 20.91 billion by 2033.

What is the Current Action Figures Market Valuation?

The market is estimated to secure a valuation of USD 9 billion in 2023.

Which Region Holds a Significant Share of the Action Figures Market?

North America holds a significant share of 41.2% through 2033.

Which are the Key Asian Countries in the Action Figures Market?

India, Japan, and China dominate the Asian market.

Table of Content
	1. Executive Summary
	2. Market Overview
	3. Market Background
	4. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033
	5. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Type
		5.1. Superheroes
		5.2. Anime Characters
		5.3. Movie Characters
		5.4. Others
	6. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By End-user
		6.1. Up to 5 Years
		6.2. 5 - 10 Years
		6.3. Above 10 Years
	7. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Distribution Channel
		7.1. Supermarket/Hypermarket
		7.2. Specialty Stores
		7.3. Online Retail
	8. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Region
		8.1. North America
		8.2. Latin America
		8.3. Europe
		8.4. Asia Pacific
		8.5. MEA
	9. North America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	10. Latin America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	11. Europe Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	12. Asia Pacific Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	13. MEA Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	14. Key Countries Market Analysis
	15. Market Structure Analysis
	16. Competition Analysis
		16.1. Hasbro
		16.2. The LEGO Group
		16.3. Playmates Toys Ltd.
		16.4. JAKKS Pacific, Inc.
		16.5. Mattel
		16.6. Bandai Namco Holdings Inc.
		16.7. Diamond Select Toys
		16.8. Good Smile Company, Inc.
		16.9. Spin Master
		16.10. McFarlane Toys
	17. Assumptions & Acronyms Used
	18. Research Methodology
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