How ‘made in China’ became trendy, thanks to Labubu toy’s Asia-wide success

How ‘made in China’ became trendy, thanks to Labubu toy’s Asia-wide success

What was the hottest toy in Asia this year? For many, the answer is a quirky, rubber-coated plush character with pointy ears, devilish eyes, jagged teeth and a mischievous grin. Labubu, designed by Hong Kong-born Kasing Lung and made by Pop Mart, China’s leading retailer of trendy toys, has captured the hearts of fans across … Read more

From blind box toys to snacks, Chinese venture capital firm finds growth in niche spending

From blind box toys to snacks, Chinese venture capital firm finds growth in niche spending

Chinese consumer spending is so weak that even Starbucks is considering selling a stake in its China franchise, but one venture capital firm is bucking the trend by finding growth in niche sectors despite overall weakness. Shanghai-based company BA Capital, a long term backer of China’s “blind box” toy franchise Pop Mart and jeweller Laopu … Read more