Core Insights - The mascots "Xi Yang Yang" and "Le Rong Rong" from the 15th National Games and the 12th National Paralympic Games have gained significant popularity online, leading to the development of nearly 3,000 products across 20 categories [1][1][1] - The sales performance has exceeded expectations, with the company achieving close to 10 million in sales within just 12 days in November, compared to 5 million in the first 9 months of retail operations starting from January 16 [1][1][1] - The "Ao Yu" image, featured in the opening ceremony, is also receiving attention, with potential plans for related merchandise in the future [1][1][1] Sales Performance - The retail sales of the mascots began on January 16, with the first 5 million achieved over 9 months [1] - In November, the company reported nearly 10 million in sales in just 12 days, indicating a significant increase in demand [1][1] Product Development - The company has developed a wide range of merchandise, including bubble-blowing ornaments, zodiac blind boxes, and lion decorations, with the zodiac blind boxes experiencing stock shortages and price surges on second-hand platforms [1][1][1] - There are plans to potentially introduce merchandise related to the "Ao Yu" image in the future [1]

Core Insights - The mascots "Xi Yang Yang" and "Le Rong Rong" for the 15th National Games have gained significant popularity, leading to a remarkable 163% month-on-month increase in sales of related merchandise as of October 26 [1] - Successful mascot IPs can enhance event visibility and generate substantial economic benefits, as evidenced by the popularity of previous mascots like "Bing Dwen Dwen" from the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics [1][7] Product Development and Design - The integration of traditional culture and event characteristics is a key innovation, with designers incorporating local elements such as the Lingnan lion dance into merchandise [2] - Companies like Guangdong Woyang Cultural Development Co., Ltd. have creatively combined well-known IPs like "Journey to the West" with the mascots, enhancing product interactivity and cultural richness [2] - Official merchandise must balance mass appeal and aesthetic considerations, which can limit the pursuit of niche artistic expressions [2] Technological Integration - The incorporation of AI technology into plush toys has enabled voice interaction, expanding the product line to 25 variations that reflect both the event theme and local characteristics [3] - AI enhances emotional value and alters traditional collecting logic, potentially allowing for subscription and personalized services in the future [3] Supply Chain and Manufacturing - The success of the mascot merchandise is supported by a robust supply chain, with over 2,000 products across 20 categories produced by 18 companies [4] - Dongguan is a central hub for the toy industry, producing approximately 25% of global anime derivatives and 85% of national trendy toys, with an industrial output value exceeding 23.8 billion [5] - The city has over 4,000 toy manufacturers and nearly 1,500 supporting enterprises, making it the largest toy export base in China [5] Policy Support and Industry Development - Dongguan's transformation from a manufacturing hub to a center for original IP development is bolstered by supportive policies, including a 120 million yuan fund for the trendy toy and animation industry [6] - The city is developing a comprehensive platform for IP incubation and industry exchange, aiming to become a global service hub for the trendy toy industry [6]