News Summary
The collectible trend of Labubus is sweeping through Michigan malls as parents and teens wait in long lines for these quirky toys. Originating from a Hong Kong illustrator, the blind box toys feature unique designs inspired by Nordic mythology, captivating local shoppers. Celebrity endorsements and social media buzz, particularly on TikTok, have further fueled their popularity, with prices ranging from $20 to over $150. While some collectors speculate on the trend’s lifespan, the growing demand impacts local businesses and reflects shifting shopping habits amid economic factors.
Auburn Hills, Michigan – The collectible craze surrounding Labubus is taking over malls across Michigan, as parents and teens line up for hours to get their hands on these quirky toys. The demand for the Labubu blind boxes, which feature a variety of adorable yet eccentric furry monster designs, has surged, reflecting a growing pop culture trend that has captivated local shoppers.
Queues at popular shopping destinations like Great Lakes Crossing Outlets in Auburn Hills, Twelve Oaks Mall in Novi, and Woodland Mall in Grand Rapids have reportedly stretched for over two hours, as enthusiasts flock to buy these must-have items. The toys, manufactured by the Chinese company Pop Mart, contain a sense of mystery; customers do not know which character they are purchasing until they open the blind box.
Labubus, originally conceived by Hong Kong illustrator Kasing Lung in 2015 and launched as toys in 2019, are inspired by Nordic mythology. The series includes characters with distinct features such as Tycoco, Spooky, Pato, and Zimomo, drawing collectors with their unique attributes and eclectic designs. Each themed series typically comprises 10 to 12 Labubus, with one hidden “secret” character in each box, adding to the excitement and collectibility.
The recent boom in Labubu popularity can be partly attributed to celebrity endorsements, with figures such as Cher, Rihanna, David Beckham, and Dillon Brooks showcasing Labubu keychains, boosting their appeal. Social media platforms, especially TikTok, have further fueled the trend, as unboxing videos showcasing Labubus have garnered millions of views and captivated a wider audience.
In addition to traditional plush toys, a new keyring version of the Labubus launched in 2023 has transformed the collectibles into fashionable accessories, attracting a different crowd keen on trendy, portable items. Prices for these unique toys start at over $20, with entire themed sets costing upwards of $150. Reseller markets, particularly on eBay, are witnessing inflated prices, prompting cautious buying habits among collectors wary of knock-offs, known as Lafufus.
Amirah Sari, a store owner, has highlighted the need for preorders to meet the escalating demand, which has resulted in a steady stream of customers seeking these sought-after collectibles. The correlation between economic conditions and consumer behavior has been noted, as the “lipstick effect”— a trend where individuals indulge in small luxuries during trying financial times—appears to play a role in the growing interest in Labubus.
Labubus’ rise in popularity has had broader implications for local businesses, particularly those situated near Pop Mart Robo Shop vending machines. Over 2,500 of these machines are located globally, with the nearest physical store situated in Chicago. The Robo Shop, which was recently introduced in Twelve Oaks Mall, has seen continuous long lines, representing both the fascination with Labubus and the diverse customer base it attracts.
Collector Amber Pierce has speculated that the Labubu trend may have a fleeting lifespan, potentially lasting only a couple more months as collectors transition to the next latest craze. Meanwhile, Google searches for Labubus have reached an all-time high, indicating an expanding interest in these curious collectibles that are reminiscent of past fads such as Cabbage Patch Dolls and Beanie Babies.
As shopping habits evolve and new trends emerge, Labubus, with their distinct furry bodies, round eyes, and sharp teeth, have carved a niche in the hearts of many collectors across Michigan, contributing to a larger narrative of consumer culture in the region.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Long Lines at Twelve Oaks Mall for Labubu Toys
Additional Resources
- Detroit News
- Wikipedia: Toy
- WXYZ News
- Google Search: Labubu toys
- Lansing State Journal
- Google Scholar: collectible toys
- Encyclopedia Britannica: collectibles
- Google News: Labubu craze
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
NOVI STAFF WRITER The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
