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July 2, 2025 13 mins

Labubu is everywhere - from TikTok edits to custom BBLs, to collectors spending hundreds to make theirs one of a kind. In our previous Labubu episode, we spoke about the business behind Popmart and why it is so popular. In this episode, we go further into the consumer’s psyche, over a toy that has no practical purpose. 

Tengian, Elody, and Phyllis discuss: 

  • How customization, scarcity, and storytelling drive fan culture

  • The emotional psychology behind spending on toys with zero utility

  • How Pop Mart turned Labubu into its #1 revenue driver — surpassing Molly

  • Why fights are breaking out in stores… and what that says about hype economics


Timestamps

00:01:00: Why people are customizing and giving BBLs to Labubu

00:03:30: The cost of a single collectible (and its emotional value)

00:06:00: Why useless things make better business

00:09:00: Labubu surpasses Molly: Pop Mart’s growth explained

00:11:30 – International hype, bans, and resale frenzy


Featured materials: 

E103: Behind Labubu Craze: Popmart Business explained 

https://youtu.be/PLIq2UkvgwA?si=zYwDVzisoavFZgjU



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