How Old Games and Hobbies are Becoming the Wave of the Future
Move over Nana, there’s a NEW puzzle superfan in town! Not only are puzzles and board games still a thing, the $11.88 billion market is booming and projected to grow. Manufacturers are expanding the limits of design while keeping production costs low and sparking the interest of a brand new generation.
2020 was – pardon my language – bananas (hot take, I know). Unemployment, distancing from loved ones, being trapped in your house with your stupid family; it was a real mess. Because the present moment seemed like a real dumpster fire, and we longed for simpler times. We tie-dyed t-shirts, made up dances with our friends in our basement, bleached our hair, and thought about Gamestop. (To the moon, baby!)
Because mother nature sent us to our rooms like a bunch of irresponsible teens, everyone acted accordingly. Companies like Arcade1Up, which specializes in retro arcade cabinets, have seen their sales flourish as they helped us scratch the nostalgic itch of yester-year while combining the technology that connects us todayster-year. And after reading this, my house now looks like this, which means I’ve disappointed my wife twice. Let this be a sobering reminder that opinions are subjective.
Consumers are continuing to connect with old hobbies. Puzzle sales were up 370% and boardgame sales are up 21% at Hasbro. Adult coloring books, Vinyl records and players, and Arts and Crafts supplies have also seen a big uptick in sales since COVID reared its ugly ass on the world. With many people staying vigilant against in-store shopping, Amazon is on track to clean up in 2021 and beyond.
Does “making bank” count as a hobby? If so, get ready to become a pro!
