Big companies know that not all ideas come from one pool or one source of people, so they're always looking for outsiders to come up with opportunities they may not have thought of. It's a fresh source of inspiration.

309

The toy industry has really been flat for the past three years, ... The tough part for the manufacturers has been the weak economy. Toymakers have struggled with declining profit margins as more and more consumers opted to buy toys on sale.

232

Toy retailers and manufacturers are trying a different strategy so that they don't keep coming back to the same places. In some instances, it's a strategic decision. Toymakers need to expand their options in order to grow their market share. It's also a way out if Wal-Mart rejects their products.

211

Kids want to have the latest in technology, just like adults. Kids have grown up with computers. They are not afraid of technology, they embrace it.

160

We'll still see price wars once we move further into the season. The difference is that they may not be across-the-board but only on the highly promoted items.

151

Celebrity dolls have always been a pop icon trend. Whenever a product ties to a licensed character or celebrity, it takes on a life of its own.

137

A lot of people are strapped for time, and they don't want to pull out a game if they know it's going to be an hour or more.

135

This is a big leap. A 3-year-old with a digital camera is unusual.

130