What claw machine merchandise is trending in 2025?
When it comes to running a successful claw machine (or crane machine), the prizes & merchandise are just as important as the machine itself. The right merchandise not only attracts players but also keeps them coming back for more. At ELAUT, we partnered with German wholesaler Landahl & Baumann – experts in plush and merchandise distribution – to identify the items that are expected to be the hottest and popular merchandise in 2025.
Here’s a look at what’s trending in claw machine merchandise and claw machine plush right now and what you should consider stocking to boost your revenues.
Why paying attention to merchandise matters
The success of a claw machine comes down to two things: player experience and prize appeal. A well-presented claw machine stocked with trending, desirable items is far more likely to drive plays than one filled with outdated or unpopular prizes. That’s why staying ahead of merchandise trends is key to maximizing both foot traffic and revenue.
We sat down with Landahl & Baumann, a leading German wholesaler of plush and licensed merchandise, who have their finger on the pulse of what’s trending in the market. Based on current demand and forward-looking orders, they expect the following plush lines of hot generic plush and licensed plush to perform especially well for the remainder of 2025.
Generic plush & claw machine merchandise trends for 2025
Generic plush refers to non-licensed designs like animals, food-inspired characters, or quirky shapes. They’re timeless, cost-effective for operators, and have broad appeal. For the remainder of the year, they expect strong demand driven by the Kawaii trend and social media aesthetics.
Here’s what’s hot:
Capybara
Riding on the wave of internet popularity, capybaras are set to be a must-have generic line.
Sloth
Sloths continue their strong run as an evergreen claw machine plush that appeals across age groups.
Kawaii Bears
Tapping into the Kawaii trend, these bears combine cuteness with collectability.
Foodies
Kawaii “food with faces” plushies are still gaining momentum, making them a playful, Instagram-friendly option.
Bull Plush
Distinctive design and high perceived value make these a strong seller.
Licensed plush & popular merchandise trends
Licensed plush are tied to popular franchises such as Disney, Minecraft, or Hello Kitty. They usually come at a higher wholesale cost than generic plush, but their strong brand recognition lets operators justify slightly higher play prices. With major movie releases in 2025 fueling demand, licensed merchandise will remain a top-performing prize category for the rest of the year.
What to watch:
Disney’s Stitch
With a new Stitch movie in 2025, expect Stitch-themed prizes to soar in demand.
Minecraft
With a Minecraft movie launching in 2025, this classic brand will only grow in popularity.
Mufasa: Lion King
The timeless Lion King universe remains a reliable choice.
Bluey & Bingo
The most popular preschool property in recent years, guaranteed to delight younger audiences.
Hello Kitty & Friends
A staple of the Kawaii and nostalgia-driven market, Hello Kitty continues to trend globally.
Beyond plush: other trending merchandise
While plush remains the backbone of claw machine prizes, operators can boost revenue by mixing in other high-demand merchandise. These types of prizes often follow fast-moving trends—whether sparked by viral social media, blockbuster releases, or tech launches. Even if the hype wears off, the short-term buzz can create a surge in plays and higher turnover, especially when players feel they’re getting access to the “must-have” item of the moment.
By combining these trending prizes with reliable plush classics, operators can keep machines fresh, appealing to both casual players and those chasing the latest craze. Here are some of the trends that you might want to follow:
- Labubu Collectibles | Already a sensation in Asia, these quirky figurines are quickly gaining traction globally.
- Pokémon Cards | A timeless collectible, especially with limited editions and premium sets.
- Tech Accessories | Items like iPhone AirPods, branded headphones, and mini speakers are high-value prizes that attract older players.
- Lifestyle Prizes | Reusable water bottles, pop-culture keychains, or small gadgets make great fillers alongside larger plush.
Why pairing merchandise with the right claw machine matters
Having the right merchandise is only half the story. To maximize profits, operators need a claw machine that can:
- Present merchandise attractively to catch players’ attention from a distance
- Handle premium prizes like electronics or collectibles without damage
- Offer novelty redemption that allow operators to control margins on high-value items
This is where the E-Claw stands out. With its superior mechanics and flexible prize handling, it’s built to showcase everything from trending plush to luxury items, ensuring both players and operators get the best possible experience. Learn more about how to choose the right claw machine for your operation here.
Conclusion
Trends come and go, but one thing remains consistent: players are always drawn to fresh, desirable prizes. By staying ahead of merchandise trends and investing in a claw machine built to handle them, operators can ensure steady revenues and satisfied customers.
Want to discover how the E-Claw can help you make the most of the hottest merchandise trends of the moment? Get in touch with us today.