Blind Bags: The Rise of Surprise Collectibles In the new decade, a new type of toy (a new version of collectibles) emerged as a popular product: the blind bag (or blind box) collectible. Blind bag collectibles are a series of toys or figure sets packaged in a hidden-from-view manner, with the contents revealed upon opening. The concept was first introduced in the 1930s, but it was not until the turn of the century that it really began to gain significant traction. Blind bags are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, typically small and thin, and contain surprise toys or collectibles. They can accommodate a diverse range of toys and collectibles, including figurines, keychains, stickers, and more. They are available for purchase in sets or individually, with each set featuring a specific theme or set of characters. The objective is to amass an entire line of characters, which can prove challenging if the items are sold in a random order. The element of surprise introduced by this unpredictability is a key feature of the sets, offering customers the chance to discover what's in each one. Additionally, the collection is designed to be addictive, as it is challenging to complete a set by simply purchasing the necessary items, particularly given the difficulty in locating certain items within the series. Nevertheless, those willing to invest a significant sum may be able to procure all but the scarce varieties. Blinds are typically small and inexpensive, with a price point of no more than $5 in the United States. However, more elaborate blinds may carry a higher cost, with those produced in markets such as East Asia often featuring intricate designs. The cost of production for these figures is low, but companies generally recoup their investment by encouraging customers to purchase multiple sets in order to obtain the items they desire. Due to the high probability of multiple sets being available, a secondary market for buying, selling, and trading has emerged, enabling customers to find the figures they want. Brands and collections are also popular for online unboxing videos because customers are unaware of the contents of each package, even if they purchase a complete set. Unless a particular item is rare, customers cannot be certain of what they will receive. Many companies manufacture original blind-box collections based on original characters. However, there are just as many franchises, brands, and a plethora of licensed collaborative products. Sites such as Kikagoods, Blind Box Empire, and SugoiMart specialize in the sale of blind boxes, often sourced directly from East Asian brands. Demengtoy, on the other hand, specializes in the custom manufacturing of blind-bag products for these sites or artists.What is a Blind Bag?
Blind Bag Collectibles Overview