Barbie, one of the biggest selling Christmas gifts since 1959, is facing stiff competition from newcomers Elmo, Action Command Spider-Man, and the Walking Angelina Doll.
Barbie, created by the world's largest toy-maker, Mattel, has always featured on the Just Fun Toys' annual list of top-selling children's gifts. Just Fun Toys is one of the biggest suppliers of toys to local stores.
Some new entries on the list include the Hannah Montana doll and Disney's High School Musical sing-a-long DVD set.
However, Barbie, whose popularity has rarely flagged over the years, is not giving up her top-selling title without a fight.
Barbie's new Island Princess is apparently flying off the shelves.
Just Fun Toys brand manager Angelique Thompson said not much has changed since last year, as established larger toy brands always have something new and exciting to offer each year.
“Girls and boys always follow the role-play patterns, with dolls and cars being popular, while this year new creative items are becoming more popular,” she said.
In this category, top- selling toys for babies between six months and a year include Fisher-Price's Elmo Extreme, a jump pad filled with toys, the Bright Starts activity zone and nature sounds and lights of Melodies and Lights Gym.
These all come with a price tag of between R400 and R700.
Hot on the heels of Barbie is the R490 Walking Angelina doll, which blows bubbles when her arm is squeezed.
Another hit this year is the Disney High School Musical DVD/karaoke set, complete with a dancing mat with flashing lights to show young dancers the ropes.
For boys, there is Meccano's radio- controlled streetcar with music player, also SA's toy of the year.
Article via I-Net-Bridge
