Since 1970, Earth Day has served as a vivid reminder of the need to protect global ecosystems and biodiversity. Each year, on the 22nd April, it marks a time to consider the small actions we can all take to play our part. As families become increasingly eco-conscious, there’s growing demand for brands to create toys … Read More
Is April Fools’ fatigue now a thing?
What was once a highly-anticipated annual rouse, could be losing its shine When executed well, an April Fools’ joke can win over legions of new brand fans and even generate serious press attention. But has the joke worn thin? Looking back, traditional media once dominated April Fools’ Day, crafting fictional news stories that playfully tricked … Read More
The March Vibe: Family campaigns we’re feeling in March
With Easter on the horizon, family-friendly brands are rolling out fresh collaborations, seasonal launches, and engaging storytelling to stay top of mind.
Move over Cadbury’s: toys are the new Easter eggs!
When it comes to Easter, lots of people now look for non-chocolate gifts to offer their loved ones. We take a look at what kinds of toys are being bought and why.
Women in toys: breaking barriers and leading change
International Women’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate the trailblazing women shaping the UK toy industry. Over the past 25 years working in the industry, I’ve witnessed dramatic change. Gone are the days of being one of few women walking the aisles at toy fairs – with stands manned solely by men! Thankfully, there … Read More
Highlight’s POV on the best bits from the toy industry in February
From heartwarming nostalgia to bold political statements, this month’s standout toy campaigns are tapping into powerful emotions. Brands are crafting stories that not only capture attention but also inspire action. Here’s our roundup of the best toy campaigns from the past month, showcasing the diverse and evolving landscape of the toy industry. 1. The future … Read More
Miffy turns 70 and I was there to celebrate!
Come and celebrate Miffy’s 70th at Leeds City Museum! It was a day full of fun, creativity, and nostalgia amongst Dick Bruna’s artwork – with the added bonus of being able to meet Miffy herself!
PR in full bloom: the flower power trend winning over kids and adults
Whether it’s limited-edition products, unforgettable experiences, or epic collaborations, alternative takes on flowers are captivating hearts across generations—and the craze is only growing stronger, influencing gifting occasions throughout the year.
Why Toy Marketing and PR isn’t just for Christmas
H1 might seem like the quiet before the storm in the toy world, but it’s a crucial time for toy brands to build authentic connections, collaborate with influencers, and tap into new shopper opportunities. Engaging early leads to better customer retention and higher sales later in the year. Here’s why H1 should be your toy … Read More
Kids’ TV in 2025: how the industry is evolving
Children’s content is thriving. Netflix’s second-most-viewed category in early 2024 was kids and family. Yet, the industry faces challenges: CITV shut down, CBBC moved online, and concerns grow over commercial kids’ TV disappearing altogether. So, how is the industry adapting? The power of Kidscreen Summit Key players in children’s TV will flock to San Diego … Read More
JANUARY VIBES: Big wins, hot trends, and exciting toy releases
As we head into February, the UK toy industry is off to a strong start. Here’s our ‘January Vibes’ round up of hottest news, trends and releases you need to know.
The Nostalgic Toy Renaissance: Why Collectibles and Iconic Favourites Are Making a UK Comeback
Nostalgia is a powerful emotion. It evokes comfort, joy, and a longing for simpler times—a sentiment that has increasingly shaped consumer trends in the UK. From plushies and tech-enhanced Tamagotchis to reimagined movie tie-ins like The Lion King, the toy industry has successfully tapped into this collective yearning, fueling the rise of collectible and iconic … Read More
The TikTok Tangle: What a Potential US Ban Could Mean for Influencer Marketing in the UK
In the fast-moving world of social media, TikTok has carved out a spot as the go-to platform for everything from viral dances to bite-sized life hacks. But across the pond, TikTok is facing a potential ban in the United States this January, sending shockwaves through the influencer marketing industry. While the UK isn’t directly in … Read More
Highlights: Big Bets on 2025 Toy and Family Trends
As the year winds down, we’re unveiling our top 10 toy and family trends poised to shape 2025. From shifting consumer values to tech innovation and sustainable play, these predictions spotlight what’s next for toy brands and families. Let’s dive in! 1. Kidult Craze Takes Over The ‘kidult’ market is exploding, with nostalgia-driven toys, premium … Read More
Why Grown-Ups Are the New Kids
The £1 Billion ‘Kidult’ Market Toy Brands Can’t Afford to Ignore Toys aren’t just for kids anymore. In 2023, the so-called ‘kidult’ market – adults indulging in play for nostalgia, stress relief, or creative expression – accounted for a whopping 28% of the total toy market. That’s nearly one in every three pounds spent on … Read More
HAPPY BIRTHDAY GEN B…
The New Generation of Toy Consumers Redefining the Future of Play As the clock strikes one minute past midnight on 1st January 2025, the world will welcome Gen B – the newest generation of consumers hot off the heels of Gen A. These babies, born at the dawn of a new era, represent not just … Read More
Children’s author writes bedtime poem to launch Thready Bear
Children’s author writes bedtime poem to launch Thready Bear. Teddies, Talent and Modern Poetry… That’s what we brought together in a recent toy launch for Moose Toys, with the one and only, Michael Rosen.
Time Poor? Here’s Your Snackable Takeaways from We Are Social’s Latest Report
If Deliveroo delivered marketing insights, this would be the ultimate takeaway! Grab a bite of the top influencer trends from We Are Social, whilst they’re still hot!
PR with Purpose: How We Elevated Clipper Teas’ 30 years of Fairtrade
Clipper Teas has an unwavering belief in the power of Fairtrade and organic sourcing. As we approached Fairtrade Fortnight, our goal was to highlight this pioneering spirit, while giving Clipper a clear leadership perspective.
Reindeer in September at the Big Christmas Press Show!
Christmas arrived at the Business Design Centre in Islington this week with two live reindeer bringing the festive wows to the Big Christmas Press Show, where we were on hand to promote our client Moose Toys.
Festival magic: how we helped turn Moose Toys into a Camp Bestival HIT!
At Highlight, we pride ourselves on crafting unforgettable experiences that resonate with consumers and put our client’s brands on loudspeaker. Our latest big bang for Moose Toys was no exception. This year’s Camp Bestival in Dorset saw Moose become the festival’s official toy partner – a first for the company. Our brief was two-fold: create … Read More
A New Chapter: Highlight’s Move to Central Bristol
We’re celebrating our 25th anniversary with a move from Bath to central Bristol. The city, with its vibrant creative and media scene, is the perfect environment for us to continue evolving and inspiring brands and businesses with innovative campaigns.
Highlight lands two more PRCA Dare Awards
Team Highlight is celebrating after winning two more PRCA Dare Awards for the South West – the UK’s leading PR awards for the regions.
Moose Toys and Fudge Kitchen hire Highlight
Highlight is embarking on new campaigns for two fresh clients this summer: Moose Toys retaining our services for their UK PR and influencer campaigns and artisan confectionery brand, Fudge Kitchen appointing us to manage PR and communications.
Who’s the fool on April Fools?
We’ve all become a bit wise to April Fools’ Day pranks. What was once a day about IRL practical jokes, today, April Fools’ is more of a social moment.
Life’s a playground in Nuremberg!
It’s that time of the year again – long days, thousands of steps, sore feet but 2024 Nuremberg Toy Fair didn’t disappoint…
2024 toy trends: Fresh from London Toy Fair
What happens when you bring the latest and greatest from the toy industry together? You get the London Toy Fair!
A taste of the future: Food & drink trends for 2024
Health reboots, wellness kicks and a booze ban *might* be the predictable trend for January, but there is a lot more shaping the Food & Drink industry – and brand strategies – in 2024.
Spotlighting nostalgia in the toy industry
Read about the trend for nostalgia in the toy industry, Miffy’s growing market presence and the opening of the UK’s first Miffy pop-up.
Looking back on our highlights from 2023
2023 was another busy year for Highlight with some great campaigns and great results. Here’s a round up of some of the highlights from the year.
The next milestone in Highlight’s 25 year history
We’re proud to unveil a new look for Highlight in 2024 to mark our 25th year in business.
Double whammy win for Highlight at CIPR 2023
It was another golden night for Highlight at this year’s CIPR South of England & Channel Islands PRide Awards, where we scooped two Golds for Best Consumer Relations Campaign and Best Integrated Campaign.