Family bonding during lockdown is set to trigger a sales boom in toys that parents also liked to play with.
Increased family play time has led to the “kidult” phenomenon of adults buying toys they played with when THEY were kids.
It has already meant a 400% surge in demand for the likes of Lego and Monopoly as well as retro Funko Pop figures including characters from Harry Potter, Star Wars, Disney and Marvel.
Tesco’s predicted best-sellers include a roaring, stomping Jurassic Park T-Rex and a screen-linked Pictionary.
A Kindi Kids doll that giggles, sings and blows ice cream-scented bubbles is set to sell well, as is a Darth Vader helmet from Lego.
It comes amid fears among some retailers that the driver shortage and supply chaos will leave gaps on shelves.
But Tesco has played down the warnings, insisting it has “good availability” of toys in its Top 10.
Tesco toy manager Anne Borrett said: “Lockdown created a unique scenario with parents and children able to spend more time than ever together.
"This has brought huge demand for ‘kidult’ toys – brands that bring joy to grown-ups as much as their kids.
“Choosing presents for little ones is never easy but we hope this list gives parents a little bit of insight into what’s been popular in the world of toys this year.”
Stocking up on Christmas gifts in October might seem premature but parents are being urged to get in early amid fears of toy shortages.
The industry has become the latest hit by shipping delays and the 90,000 shortfall of HGV delivery drivers.
And that means there could be limited numbers of the most popular toys by the time the festive season is upon us.
Gary Grant, founder of toy chain The Entertainer, said: “Already we cannot get the full quantity of containers we need to move our stock compared to last year.
“And we’re still in the summer. Every delay from this point runs the risk of stock not being delivered before Christmas.
