In shopping centers around Australia, an unexpected sight has become increasingly common. Crowds of excited shoppers, mostly young adults, form lengthy queues that snake through hallways, all waiting patiently for their chance to purchase small monster plushies. The object of their desire? Labubu collectibles, the curiously charming monster toys that have transformed from niche collectibles into a nationwide obsession.
These peculiar little creatures have captured the hearts and wallets of Australians in a remarkably short time. What started as an underground collecting hobby has erupted into a full-blown cultural phenomenon, with some rare specimens fetching upwards of $1,000 in the resale market.
What Are These Bizarre Little Monsters?
Labubu toys are the brainchild of Hong Kong designer Kasing Lung, who first introduced these quirky creatures back in 2015. Drawing inspiration from Nordic folklore, these plush monsters feature distinctive wide-mouthed grins, pointy teeth, and oddly endearing expressions that walk the line between cute and creepy.
The toys gained mainstream recognition after being spotted with several high-profile celebrities. Music icons like Rihanna, Dua Lipa, and Blackpink’s Lisa have been seen sporting these unusual accessories, catapulting the brand into the global spotlight almost overnight.
Chinese toy company Pop Mart produces and distributes these collectibles, typically selling them in “blind boxes” that retail for around $32. The mystery element is a crucial part of their appeal, as buyers never know which design they’ll receive until they open the package.
From Retail Purchase to Resale Goldmine
The scarcity factor has created a booming secondary market that has taken many by surprise. eBay Australia reports that searches for Labubu toys have skyrocketed by over 200 percent month-on-month, making them one of the platform’s hottest trending items.
“Labubu is tapping into a powerful combination of nostalgia and collectability,” explains Alaister Low, eBay Australia’s head of collectables. This unique blend has created the perfect storm for resale value growth, with some of the rarest figures commanding eye-watering prices.
The “Big Energy” secret Labubu figure, one of the most sought-after designs, has been listed for an astonishing $1,000 on resale platforms. Even more remarkable, these listings are for opened boxes, proving that the actual figure holds tremendous value independent of its packaging.
Another seller from New South Wales recently pocketed $500 for the same secret Labubu model. Meanwhile, unopened blind boxes from the popular Macaroon series regularly fetch $85.99 each, more than double their retail price.
The Economics Behind the Monster Madness
What makes this trend particularly fascinating is its timing amid Australia’s ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Despite economic pressures, Australians are happily spending significant amounts on these small luxuries, creating what economists might call a modern version of the “lipstick effect.”
This economic theory, coined by Leonard Lauder of Estee Lauder, suggests that during financial downturns, consumers often seek affordable indulgences. Labubu toys, with their relatively accessible retail price point of $32, offer the perfect small luxury for those feeling the pinch elsewhere.
“In today’s economic climate, Labubu offers what we might call an ‘affordable luxury’ — a small joy that brings people back to the thrill of collecting without breaking the bank,” Low explains. The limited-edition releases transform every purchase into an exciting treasure hunt, adding an element of adventure to the collecting experience.
The Psychology of Collecting: Why We’re Hooked
The blind box format is particularly genius from a psychological perspective. The uncertainty of what figure awaits inside creates a dopamine-driven anticipation loop that keeps collectors coming back for more.
Each purchase carries the tantalizing possibility of receiving a “secret” Labubu — specially designed variants that are randomly distributed and extremely rare. This gambling-adjacent thrill has proven irresistible for many collectors, especially among Millennials and Gen Z.
The social aspect cannot be overlooked, either. Labubu collecting has developed a vibrant community aspect, with enthusiasts sharing their collections online and forming connections based on their shared passion. Some fans have even started using the figures as fashionable handbag charms, extending their appeal beyond traditional collecting.
How Long Will the Monster Mania Last?
While some dismiss the Labubu phenomenon as another fleeting trend, industry experts see signs of staying power. The strong community building around these collectibles, coupled with their crossover into fashion accessories, suggests these monsters might have longevity beyond typical fads.
“It’s always hard to predict the long-term trajectory of any trend, but what we’re seeing with Labubu is that it has the hallmarks of staying power,” observes Low. The artistic design elements, limited releases, and the thrill of the hunt keep collectors engaged and returning for more.
For many enthusiasts, collecting Labubu figures isn’t merely about jumping on a trending bandwagon. It represents participation in a vibrant, evolving culture of collecting that transcends the objects themselves.
The Most Valuable Labubus in Australia
Among the most coveted pieces in the Labubu universe are the specialty collaborations and ultra-rare releases. Some listings on eBay have reached truly staggering amounts, far beyond what most would expect for small collectible toys.
The Pop Mart Labubu Vans action figure, a special collaboration with the iconic footwear brand, has been listed for an eye-watering $6,999. Similarly, the EVA Labubu Awakening figure commands premium prices, with recent listings reaching $4,599.
These exceptional valuations demonstrate how far removed the secondary market has become from the original retail pricing. What begins as a $32 purchase can transform into an investment worth thousands in the right circumstances.
Tips for New Collectors Entering the Labubu World
For those intrigued by the Labubu craze and considering starting their own collection, understanding the market dynamics is essential. Beginning collectors should familiarize themselves with the different series and relative rarity of various figures before making significant investments.
Purchasing directly from authorized retailers like Pop Mart provides the most affordable entry point. However, these official sources frequently sell out within hours of new releases, requiring dedication and sometimes pre-dawn queuing.
New collectors should also be wary of counterfeits that have inevitably emerged in response to the boom. Authentic Labubu toys have specific quality markers and packaging details that knowledgeable collectors can identify.
The Bigger Picture: What Labubu Tells Us About Consumer Behavior
The Labubu phenomenon offers fascinating insights into contemporary consumer psychology. In a digital age where so much of our entertainment is intangible, these physical collectibles provide a tangible connection and ownership experience that many find increasingly valuable.
The social currency associated with rare Labubus cannot be understated. Owning a sought-after figure confers a certain status within collector communities, fulfilling psychological needs for recognition and accomplishment.
Furthermore, the trend highlights how younger generations approach collecting differently than their predecessors. While previous generations might have collected stamps or coins, today’s collectors gravitate toward pop culture items with artistic merit and social cachet.
The Future of Collectible Toys in Australia
The remarkable success of Labubu monsters points to a broader revival in physical collectibles that shows no signs of abating. Industry analysts predict the designer toy market will continue expanding, with Australia emerging as a particularly enthusiastic market.
As digital fatigue sets in for many consumers, tactile collectibles offer a refreshing alternative to screen-based entertainment. The physical nature of these items, combined with their artistic design elements, creates an experience that digital products simply cannot replicate.
For retailers and shopping centers, the Labubu phenomenon has provided a welcome boost to foot traffic at a time when brick-and-mortar establishments face significant challenges. The queues forming outside Pop Mart stores demonstrate that compelling physical products can still draw crowds in the e-commerce era.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a Labubu?
Labubu toys are plush monster collectibles created by Hong Kong designer Kasing Lung, inspired by Nordic folklore and produced by Chinese toy company Pop Mart.
How much do Labubu toys cost retail?
The standard blind boxes retail for approximately $32 AUD through official Pop Mart stores.
Why are some Labubu toys so expensive on the resale market?
Rare “secret” designs and limited-edition releases create scarcity, with some rare designs selling for up to $1,000 or more on platforms like eBay.
What is a “blind box” format?
Blind boxes contain a mystery figure that remains unknown until opened, creating an element of surprise and chance for collectors.
Who started the Labubu trend?
The toys gained mainstream popularity after being spotted with celebrities like Rihanna, Dua Lipa, and Blackpink’s Lisa.
Are Labubu toys a good investment?
While some rare pieces have appreciated significantly in value, collecting should primarily be enjoyed as a hobby rather than viewed solely as an investment.
How can I tell if a Labubu is authentic?
Authentic Labubus come with official Pop Mart packaging, high-quality materials, and specific design details that counterfeits often fail to replicate.
Why are Australians so obsessed with these toys?
The combination of artistic design, affordable entry price, collectibility, and the thrill of potentially finding rare designs creates a powerful appeal.
Will the Labubu trend last?
Industry experts believe the strong community aspect and crossover into fashion accessories suggest longer staying power than typical fads.
Where can I buy authentic Labubu toys in Australia?
Official Pop Mart stores and authorized retailers are the best sources for authentic Labubus at retail prices.