Core Viewpoint - The plush toy industry in China is experiencing significant growth, driven by emotional value and social attributes, with the market expected to reach 241 billion yuan by 2028 from 143 billion yuan in 2024 [3][8]. Group 1: Market Trends - The plush toy market in China is projected to grow from 143 billion yuan in 2024 to 241 billion yuan by 2028 [3]. - The global plush toy market is expected to exceed 10 billion USD in 2024, with an annual growth rate of approximately 15% [8]. - The number of registered plush toy-related companies in China has remained above 1,000 annually from 2015 to 2024, with a notable increase to 1,483 companies in 2024, reflecting a year-on-year growth of over 16% [8]. Group 2: Consumer Engagement - The popularity of plush toys is evident on social media platforms, with "plush toys" related topics garnering 22.1 billion views on Xiaohongshu and 180.1 billion views on Douyin [6]. - Star IP-derived plush toys are highly favored, with products like the "卜卜" plush toy from the band Mayday selling over 100,000 units [14]. - The emotional connection and social symbolism of plush toys are becoming increasingly important, as they serve as a means for fans to express their identity and connect with others [14]. Group 3: Financial Performance - Bubble Mart reported a dramatic increase in revenue from plush products, rising from 446 million yuan in the first half of 2024 to 6.139 billion yuan in the first half of 2025, marking a year-on-year growth of 1,276.2% [11]. - The top-selling plush toys include various IP collaborations, with notable sales figures indicating strong consumer demand [7]. Group 4: Technological Integration - The integration of AI technology into plush toys is creating new interactive experiences, with the AI toy market in China expected to reach 24.6 billion yuan in 2024 and grow to 29 billion yuan in 2025 [19]. - Major companies are launching AI plush toys that offer personalized interactions and emotional companionship, aligning with the trend of emotional consumption among younger demographics [22].