Debuting as the province’s first encounter with Makro and Game’s annual Top Rated by Kids event – parents and caregivers gathered as 250 children between the ages 6 and 12 took turns to judge this year’s newest toys. This is an important event for the retailers, as it serves as their guide to the ultimate toy catalogue during the last quarter of the year, ensuring the nation’s most loved toys can be found at Makro and Game – including some exclusive launches.
“Our customers come from diverse backgrounds and there is no better way to ensure we are stocking the year’s must-have toys than through our customers themselves,” says Massmart’s Vice President of Group Marketing, Katherine Madley. “This is a unique opportunity for us to really connect with the most important driver of our business – the customer.”
This year marks the 3rd Top Rated By Kids event for the retailers, which is coveted amongst toy enthusiasts all over the country. To enter kids had to get consent from their parents or guardians and register online, and we received over 6 000 entries. From these entries, 250 children were randomly selected to be the judges for this year’s event.
Toy buying trends have shifted towards more tech-savvy, interactive toys, and educational products, driven by advancements in technology and changing parental preferences. There’s also a growing emphasis on sustainable, eco-friendly toys and inclusive products that reflect diverse backgrounds and abilities.
Last year’s top toys were the Avalanche Gel Shot, Zing Hyperstrike Slingshot, Zing Air Storm Z-Tek Bow, iPlay Drifter 8-Wheeler, iPlay Glow Pro, Nerf Double Punch, Goo Jit Zu Shifters, iPlay Build-a-Bot, Revolt Vapor Racers and the Twister Air. “This year we have some exciting launches coming, sure to surprise and delight children of all ages, backgrounds and preferences,” says Madley.
The final list of toys as judged by the little experts will be revealed later in the year in a private reveal ceremony. Parents and caregivers can also look forward to the release of Game and Makro’s much loved, festive toy catalogue.
