ICBA was recently at the Las Vegas Gift Market and was joined by several ICBA Member Buyers. We shopped, networked, and explored the market together.
One of the biggest themes emerging from the Las Vegas Gift Market was the continued demand for products that deliver joy, comfort, and stress relief.
Squishy toys were everywhere, from classic characters and animals to whimsical food-inspired designs like butter, chocolate bars, and bread. Their broad appeal spans children, teens, and adults, making them an easy impulse purchase for a wide campus audience.
The focus on playful wellness also continues to gain momentum. Fidget toys remain popular as students look for simple ways to manage stress and stay focused, while DIY activities such as crochet kits and paper/cardboard engineering projects offer creative, screen-free ways to unwind.
Another trend gaining traction is everyday self-care. Fun, reusable eye patches designed for both men and women are expanding the wellness category beyond traditional beauty products and reflect students' growing interest in affordable, accessible self-care items.
Campus Store Takeaway: Students continue to seek affordable products that help them relax, express their personality, and add moments of fun to everyday life. Novelty, wellness, and hands-on creativity remain strong drivers of impulse purchases and gift sales.
