2023 VANGUARD AWARDS

Leaders like Petshop by Fringe Studio, Huxley and Kent and West Paw are injecting humor and lightheartedness into the plush toys category. While these attributes are always appreciated by retailers and pet owners, after the obstacles the industry has faced in the last three years, humor has proven to be the best medicine. Whimsical plush toys are a win-win: the pet has a reward that can either soothe or appeal to their sense of play, and the pet parent is amused by designs and has peace of mind knowing they are excelling at pet ownership.

“Petshop by Fringe Studio continues to have a strong Q1 business with the unique, fun and humorous Spring and Summer dog toys we create annually,” said Jennifer Rosenberger, Director of Product Management—Pet for Fringe Studio. “With offering multiple seasonal and micro seasonal assortments throughout the year in addition to new everyday styles that can be sold year round, we give retailers the ability to bring newness into their stores regularly. We constantly bring innovation to our toys by expanding on the types of toys we’re offering. Our newest plush toys are an interactive nose work toy where you can hide treats inside a pocket of the toy. These nose work toys aren’t just for treats though; they’re packed with a squeaker and crinkle paper to have multi-feature fun for any dog to play.”

“When people purchase West Paw