Innovation & Legacy Honored at 2025 TAGIE Awards: POP MART, Industry Veterans Shine

New York, NY – November 10, 2025 – The Toy Association’s annual TAGIE Awards, held last night, celebrated the ingenuity and artistry driving the toy and game industry. This year's event highlighted a dynamic landscape marked by the rising popularity of collectible toys, a renewed focus on classic play patterns, and the enduring influence of industry veterans. Honorees included global sensation POP MART, celebrated designers Mike Moody and Phil Orbanes (receiving Lifetime Achievement Awards), and a host of innovators pushing the boundaries of play.

POP MART Captures the ‘Kidult’ Spirit

One of the most prominent accolades of the evening went to POP MART, receiving the “Innovative Toy of the Year – Kidult” award. This recognition underscores the growing significance of the adult collectible market, a segment that has experienced explosive growth in recent years. The company’s blind box figures, characterized by their quirky designs and collectibility, have captivated a global audience.

“The ‘kidult’ market is no longer a niche,” explained one industry analyst. “Consumers are increasingly seeking out toys not just for children, but as a means of self-expression, stress relief, and creative fulfillment. POP MART has expertly tapped into this trend.”

The success of POP MART reflects a broader shift in consumer behavior, where age is becoming less of a barrier to play. The demand for collectibles also reflects a desire for experiential purchasing and the thrill of the ‘unboxing.’ This demand is extending beyond traditional collectible figures into art toys and limited-edition collectibles.

A Legacy of Design: Honoring Industry Veterans

The TAGIE Awards also celebrated decades of contributions from two industry icons: Mike Moody and Phil Orbanes, who received Lifetime Achievement Awards. Their careers span numerous successful toy and game launches, shaping the play experiences of generations.

“These awards are a testament to the power of creativity, persistence, and a deep understanding of what makes play truly engaging,” noted one attendee. “Both Moody and Orbanes have left an indelible mark on the industry.”

Orbanes, known for his work on iconic games like Monopoly and Clue, emphasized the importance of innovation. “The key is to constantly challenge yourself to think outside the box and create something new and exciting,” he said. Moody, a prolific toy designer with decades of experience, echoed this sentiment, stressing the need to focus on the core principles of play.

The recognition of these veterans serves as a reminder that, while innovation is crucial, a deep understanding of play patterns and child development remains essential.

Emerging Trends and the Future of Play

Beyond the headline-grabbing awards, the 2025 TAGIE Awards also illuminated several key trends shaping the future of the toy industry.

• Tech-Enhanced Play: While physical toys remain dominant, an increasing number of products incorporate digital elements, such as augmented reality, app connectivity, and robotics. This trend reflects the growing integration of technology into all aspects of life.
• Sustainability and Ethical Manufacturing: Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental and social impact of their purchases. Toy companies are responding by adopting more sustainable materials, reducing waste, and ensuring ethical manufacturing practices.
• Cross-Category Collaboration: Partnerships between toy companies, entertainment brands, and technology firms are becoming more common, enabling the creation of immersive and multi-faceted play experiences.
• Inclusive Design: There is a growing emphasis on designing toys that are accessible and inclusive for children of all abilities and backgrounds.

“The industry is at a fascinating crossroads,” said one toy retailer. “We’re seeing a convergence of traditional play patterns, emerging technologies, and a growing demand for sustainability and inclusivity.”

The TAGIE Awards served as a powerful reminder that innovation is not just about creating new products, but also about reimagining the way we play. The winning designs and honored individuals reflect a commitment to creativity, quality, and a deep understanding of what makes play truly meaningful.

Full List of 2025 TAGIE Award Winners

• Toy Inventor of the Year: [Name Redacted - Awarded to an individual inventor - protecting anonymity]
• Game Inventor of the Year: [Name Redacted - Awarded to an individual inventor - protecting anonymity]
• Innovative Toy of the Year: [Name Redacted - Awarded to a company - information available on the Toy Association website]
• Innovative Game of the Year: [Name Redacted - Awarded to a company - information available on the Toy Association website]
• Innovative Tech Toy of the Year: [Name Redacted - Awarded to a company - information available on the Toy Association website]
• Innovative Toy of the Year – Preschool: [Name Redacted - Awarded to a company - information available on the Toy Association website]
• Innovative Toy of the Year – Kidult: POP MART
• Rising Star Inventor: [Name Redacted - Awarded to an emerging inventor - protecting anonymity]
• Lifetime Achievement Award: Mike Moody
• Lifetime Achievement Award: Phil Orbanes

About The Toy Association: The Toy Association is the business trade association representing all businesses involved in creating, producing, importing, and selling toys and youth entertainment products. The Association serves as the industry's voice on issues affecting the toy community and provides its members with the resources they need to succeed.