Like so many toy fads before them, Silly Bandz shot from obscurity, an annual business of $10 thousand a year, to center stage with current sales that are “north of $100 million” according to U.S.A. Today. But how long can brightly colored rubber bands that come in novelty shapes hold national attention before they go the way of the dodo?
Like most trend worthy toys, Silly Bandz have spawned a legion of knock offs, been banned in many schools and inspired more than a few grown ups to buy into the craze (check out Sarah Jessica Parker and Mary Kate Olsen). They’re cheap, easy for siblings to share and easy for parents to give in and buy in the check-out line, where the packs are often featured with the impulse buys. And kids are absolutely bonkers for them.
But will it last? Tim Walsh, a toy inventor and author recently featured in the documentary “Toyland” tells AOL Daily Finance that he doesn’t think so. Unlike Cabbage Patch Dolls and Huluhoops, other toy fads that have transitioned into sentimental favorites, Silly Bandz aren’t terribly novel, at least in Walsh’s eyes.
Creator Robert Croak is philosophical about the longevity of his product. He estimates another five years. He is excited, however, to be along for the ride for as long as it lasts. He has been offered buy outs, but he is having far too much fun to get out of the Silly Bandz game now. Walsh, on the other hand, gives the trend about six months. Which isn’t a bad run, considering that Croak has rac
