Every collector wants to find the next Labubu before it blows up. The honest truth? Nobody can predict virality. But you can read the signals: which IPs are getting disproportionate shelf space, which artists are generating organic social buzz, and which lines show steep growth curves from small bases. Here are the names worth watching in 2026.
Crybaby: The Growth Story
At ¥2.93 billion (7.9% of Pop Mart revenue), Crybaby is the IP that growth-obsessed analysts love to cite. The percentage climb from its prior-year base is dramatic. But here is the nuance: steep growth from a small base is not the same as cultural dominance. Crybaby needs to prove it can sustain momentum once the "discovery" phase ends and it becomes mainstream.
Xing Xing Ren (Starman): The Diversification Bet
Starman hit ¥2.06 billion in its debut year—enough to crack the top six. Pop Mart is clearly investing in this line as a hedge against Labubu concentration.
Independent Plush: The Anti-Algorithm Play
Not everything worth collecting comes from a publicly traded company. Independent plush brands like Labubu Box grow on design language, texture quality, and community word-of-mouth rather than celebrity endorsements.
The Signal Checklist
- Flagship window placement: Which IP gets the hero display next quarter?
- Collaboration partners: Fashion, beauty, and F&B crossovers signal corporate confidence.
- Secondary market breadth: Are multiple SKUs trading, or only one secret chase?
- Artist social following: Organic fan art and cosplay indicate emotional investment beyond purchase.
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Data context: Pop Mart 2025 Annual Report. Predictions are speculative; verify with official announcements.