Group 1 - The recent decline in the second-hand price of LEGO's new product "Toothless" by nearly 200 yuan indicates a cooling market for LEGO, which was previously regarded as a "plastic gold" due to its high resale value [3][6] - The official price of the new "Toothless" set is 629 yuan, but it is being sold on second-hand platforms for around 423 yuan, reflecting a significant discount [3][4] - The decline in LEGO's second-hand prices is attributed to market competition and changing consumer interests, rather than a loss of brand popularity [6][9] Group 2 - The collectible value of trendy toys like LEGO is closely tied to current pop culture and market demand, leading to price fluctuations based on consumer interest [6][9] - The rise of domestic brands like Pop Mart, which has introduced innovative blind box products, has significantly impacted LEGO's market position [8][11] - The overall toy market is evolving, with domestic brands rapidly improving in areas such as supply chain optimization and digital transformation, posing challenges for LEGO in meeting local consumer preferences [11]

Core Insights - The new LEGO product "Toothless" has faced poor sales performance, with a significant price difference between the official store and second-hand platforms, indicating a cooling market for LEGO products [2][11] - The overall LEGO market is experiencing increased competition, with some speculators shifting their focus to Labubu, a new toy brand, which is impacting LEGO's customer base [2][13] Sales Performance - Despite the challenges, the LEGO store in Jinan's Hang Lung Plaza reported stable customer traffic and sales, particularly during the summer season [3][5] - The official price of the new "Toothless" product remains consistent across online and offline channels, with no current discounts available [5][11] Market Trends - LEGO's overall financial performance remains strong, with a reported revenue of 743 billion Danish Kroner (approximately 70.27 billion RMB) for 2024, reflecting a 13% year-on-year growth [7] - Older LEGO sets are reportedly selling better than new releases, with some customers preferring completed sets for their affordability and ease of use [11][12] Consumer Behavior - Many consumers express that LEGO products are becoming too expensive, leading to a decline in speculative buying behavior [11][13] - The appeal of completed LEGO sets is growing, as they offer a more immediate satisfaction compared to the higher-priced new sets [12][13] Competitive Landscape - The rise of Labubu and other domestic brands is creating a more competitive environment for LEGO, with some consumers feeling that LEGO has not innovated enough to maintain its market dominance [11][13] - The LEGO brand is attempting to adapt by increasing collaborations with popular IPs, such as Mario and Pixar, to attract a broader audience [14]

Core Viewpoint - Shanghai Lego Land, the largest in Asia, officially opened on July 5, 2023, but has received mixed reviews from visitors, with some finding it lacking in attractions while others appreciate it as a destination for Lego enthusiasts and children [2][3]. Group 1: Opening and Initial Reception - The park opened to the public on June 20, 2023, and experienced a malfunction on its popular ride "Lego Flying Car," leaving visitors suspended for over 30 minutes [4][5]. - The park's ticket pricing is notably high, with peak adult tickets priced at 549 yuan, making it the most expensive theme park in Asia [16][17]. - The park's location in Jinshan District is about an hour's drive from downtown Shanghai, aiming to attract visitors from the surrounding Yangtze River Delta region [14]. Group 2: Market Position and Competition - Lego Land is positioned as a competitor to established parks like Disney and Universal Studios, which have already made significant inroads into the Chinese market [10][12]. - Despite Lego's strong brand presence, the park's initial buzz and search interest appear to be lower compared to its competitors [12][28]. - The park's strategy includes targeting families with children aged 2 to 12, but some adults find the attractions less engaging [21][47]. Group 3: Pricing and Consumer Behavior - The annual pass is priced at 1399 yuan, encouraging repeat visits to boost ancillary revenue from dining and hotel services [20]. - The park's pricing strategy has led to criticism, as it does not replicate the "high price but installment experience" model of Lego toys, resulting in a high upfront cost for visitors [25]. - Initial ticket sales were strong, with over 3000 tickets sold during a promotional event, but subsequent availability suggests a lack of overwhelming demand [26][28]. Group 4: Broader Economic Context - The theme park industry in China is experiencing rapid growth, but current economic conditions have led to a more conservative spending behavior among consumers [51][56]. - Reports indicate that secondary spending within parks, such as dining and merchandise, has seen a decline of 10% to 30% in 2024 [55]. - The competitive landscape in the Yangtze River Delta is intensifying, with new parks like the Peppa Pig theme park set to open, increasing the pressure on Lego Land to innovate and optimize its offerings [58][59].