The air fryer has emerged as a popular kitchen appliance, leading to the introduction of a children’s wooden play version that is anticipated to be a bestseller for Christmas 2023. Despite the early mention of the holiday season, retailers in the UK are beginning their festive promotions as summer breaks conclude and forecasts predict inclement weather.
With approximately 120 days remaining until Christmas, John Lewis has released a preview of toys expected to be in high demand. Among the featured items is a £30 wooden toy air fryer that includes wooden chips and chicken drumsticks, designed to complement a child’s play kitchen. This toy is part of a range that also includes a toy pizza oven.
The list of anticipated bestsellers includes well-known brands such as Steiff, Lego, and Brio, alongside new offerings like an updated version of the Toniebox audio system. A notable addition is the £60 Sylvanian Families skytop fairy castle playset, which combines themes from the popular Sylvanian Families with amusement park aesthetics. The playset features characters like a chocolate rabbit baby dressed in a fairy costume.
The most expensive item on the list is the £125 Brio mega spiral set, a 63-piece train set that enables the construction of complex tracks. Another game highlighted is Uno Spin, which incorporates a spinning wheel that dictates players’ actions during gameplay.
Following a challenging period for the toy industry, UK toy sales have experienced an 8% increase this year, fueled partly by adults purchasing toys for personal enjoyment. This aligns with broader global market trends, as indicated by market research firm Circana. John Lewis reported a notable rise in sales of wooden toys and Lego figures.
The forecast for popular toys this Christmas includes items priced from £16.99 to £124.99, reflecting a diverse range of options for consumers.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2025/aug/27/toy-air-fryer-christmas-bestseller-john-lewis