IP-related product sales soar by 448.94% in 2024

The blind box trend grew by 137.77% in 2024

Intellectual property (IP)-related products saw a 448.94% year-over-year (YoY) increase in gross merchandise value (GMV), with sales and order volumes rising by more than 200% in 2024, according to a report by SHOPLINE.

“The global intellectual property (IP) economy is booming, generating billions annually in the character IP market alone,” the report said.

“Licensing, derivative development, and cross-border collaborations have forged a complete industry and value chain, establishing a major business model for the creative sector,” it added.

Iconic brands like Pokémon, which has generated over $$100b since its debut, along with newer IPs such as Japanese webtoon character Chiikawa and Pop Mart’s LABUBU and CRYBABY, are fuelling a global character merchandise craze. The blind box trend grew by 137.77% in 2024, with searches for “blind boxes” spiking. 

Additionally, merchants like Ani-Mall®, Medialink’s official anime merchandise platform, leveraged pre-orders and strategic marketing to drive success. During the Lunar New Year period, Ani-Mall® saw a tenfold increase in GMV and a ninefold surge in orders, largely fuelled by its exclusive pre-order campaign for “THE FIRST SLAM DUNK” Blu-ray boxset. The campaign was amplified through live streams, promotions, and pop-up stores, successfully converting fan interest into sales.

The blind box trend is anticipated to continue to evolve with new formats such as blind box tours and meal sets, creating even more opportunities for merchants.