In 2024, the global intellectual property (IP) market witnessed an astounding 448.94% year-over-year increase in gross merchandise value. This remarkable growth is driven by character licensing, derivative products, and cross-border collaborations. Consumers are increasingly seeking items that offer emotional value and interactive experiences, prompting merchants to adopt smart retail solutions and innovative marketing strategies. Iconic brands such as Pokémon and newer IPs like Chiikawa and LABUBU have fueled a worldwide craze for character merchandise. The blind box trend has seen a significant rise, growing by 137.77% in 2024. Merchants like Ani-Mall® have leveraged pre-orders and strategic marketing to capitalize on this surge. Meanwhile, AI-powered tools are aiding businesses in optimizing their sales strategies, ensuring they stay ahead of consumer demands.
Embracing Emotional Value and Interactive Experiences
The rapid expansion of the global IP economy underscores the importance of connecting with consumers on an emotional level. As buyers seek products that resonate emotionally and provide engaging experiences, merchants must adapt. In 2025, Hong Kong's retailers will need to embrace smart retail solutions and marketing strategies that cater to these evolving preferences. Brands like Pokémon, Chiikawa, and LABUBU have capitalized on this trend, driving substantial market growth. The blind box phenomenon, which grew by 137.77% in 2024, exemplifies how unique formats can captivate consumer interest. Ani-Mall® achieved remarkable success during the Lunar New Year period, witnessing a tenfold increase in GMV and a ninefold surge in orders through exclusive pre-order campaigns and live stream promotions.
The increasing demand for emotional and interactive products reflects a shift in consumer behavior. Traditional marketing models no longer suffice in engaging today’s discerning shoppers. Instead, merchants must focus on creating deep connections with their audience. By leveraging platforms like Ani-Mall®, businesses can convert fan enthusiasm into tangible sales. Exclusive pre-order campaigns, live streams, and pop-up stores have proven effective in fostering engagement and driving revenue. Moreover, the blind box trend continues to evolve, introducing new formats such as blind box tours and meal sets, offering even more opportunities for retailers to innovate and connect with customers.
Technological Innovation and Strategic Optimization
To thrive in the competitive IP market, merchants must harness technological advancements. AI-powered tools play a crucial role in optimizing sales strategies, enabling businesses to analyze vast product ranges, refine pricing, and manage inventory efficiently. For instance, Misutabai utilized SHOPLINE’s Product Growth Explorer to analyze over 5,000 products, ensuring optimal pricing and inventory management for high-demand items. Such tools not only streamline operations but also enhance customer satisfaction by providing relevant and timely offerings. As the IP market continues to grow, technology will be instrumental in unlocking greater potential and achieving sustainable growth.
The integration of advanced technologies is essential for staying ahead in the rapidly evolving retail landscape. AI-driven analytics help merchants make data-informed decisions, improving efficiency and profitability. Tools like SHOPLINE’s Product Growth Explorer empower businesses to identify trends and optimize their product portfolios. By analyzing extensive datasets, merchants can better understand consumer preferences and adjust their strategies accordingly. Furthermore, the continued evolution of the blind box trend presents exciting possibilities. New formats, such as blind box tours and meal sets, offer innovative ways to engage customers and create memorable experiences. Ultimately, combining emotional value with cutting-edge technology will be key to thriving in the dynamic IP economy.