With the improvement of consumption levels and the continuous advancement of technology, the children’s amusement equipment industry is facing profound changes. According to the analysis of authoritative institutions, the scale of China’s children’s amusement equipment market has reached an astonishing 87.937 billion yuan in 2023, and it is expected that by 2028, this figure will be expected to exceed 180 billion yuan, with an annual compound growth rate of more than 9%. Driven by multiple factors such as policy support, technological innovation and the continuous upgrading of consumer demand, the industry is showing six significant development trends, which will undoubtedly bring new vitality and unlimited business opportunities to the market.
1. Technological innovation leads to experience innovation
With the innovation of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technology, the children’s amusement equipment industry has ushered in unprecedented changes. VR equipment allows children to explore the deep sea and roam in space in an immersive way, and experience the ultimate immersive experience. AR glasses interact with children through virtual characters. For example, in the “Environmental Adventure” game, children can complete the task of garbage sorting through gesture recognition, which is both interesting and educational. In addition, interactive projection technology is also widely used in children’s parks in various places. For example, a park in Guangzhou uses ground sensing projection. Children only need to step on virtual flowers to trigger different sound effects. This contactless design not only ensures safety, but also greatly enhances the fun of playing. At the same time, the application of intelligent equipment is also becoming more and more widespread, and data intercommunication is achieved through the Internet of Things technology. For example, the smart bracelet introduced by a parent-child center in Shanghai can record children’s exercise data in real time and generate growth reports, providing parents with a new way of interaction.
2. Diversification of functions to strengthen educational functions
The deep combination of education and entertainment has become a new trend in the industry. A science theme park in Beijing has set up a “science workshop” ingeniously. Through intuitive physical experimental devices, children can easily understand the principle of levers and optical phenomena while playing. In addition, special functional modules such as handmade DIY areas and art creation areas are gradually becoming industry standard configurations. For example, a community children’s center in Chengdu has set up a 3D printing experience area so that children can design and make unique toy models. At the same time, the demand for parent-child competitive equipment is also rising. For example, a two-person kart track introduced in a shopping mall in Hangzhou allows parents and children to participate in the competition together, and the supporting points system further enhances customer stickiness.
3. Design concept focuses on theme innovation and environmental protection practice
With the continued popularity of IP theme design, industry leaders such as Shanghai Disney and Pop Mart have accelerated the layout of offline scenes. Zhengzhou Haichang Ocean Park has launched the “Xiangyu” theme parade of Guochao mecha ingeniously, cleverly integrating light and shadow technology to bring tourists a unique ocean adventure. At the same time, the concept of environmental protection is becoming more and more popular. Guangzhou Hip Hop Amusement Park uses food-grade silicone material to build slides, and a park in Beijing has fully adopted a solar power supply system, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more than 200 tons per year. In addition, the modular design concept has also been widely used in the industry. The detachable combination amusement facilities launched by a brand in Shenzhen can flexibly adjust the functional layout according to the actual situation of the site, effectively improving resource utilization.
4. Diversification of market expansion, demand extends to commercial complexes and communities
With the diversification of consumer demand, the children’s entertainment market is expanding from traditional parks to commercial complexes and communities. According to statistics, the proportion of children’s entertainment areas in shopping malls nationwide has increased to 18% in 2024, showing the vigorous vitality of the market. At the same time, third- and fourth-tier cities have gradually become new growth points in the industry. For example, Zhongxun Century City in Tianyang District, Baise, Guangxi, introduced video game competitions and educational entertainment projects, which attracted more than 500,000 passengers in just half a year after its opening. In addition, personalized customization services are gradually gaining favor in the market. A manufacturer in Zhongshan has created a “forest-themed” climbing net for kindergartens. This design not only integrates the concept of natural education, but also meets customers’ needs for personalized services.
5. Accelerated integration and upgrading of the industrial ecology
With the gradual maturity of the online and offline integration model, Shenzhen Happy Valley has innovatively launched the “Mini World” AR treasure hunt game. Visitors can easily unlock various virtual tasks and enjoy an immersive gaming experience through mobile phone APP. At the same time, the synergy of the industrial chain is also constantly increasing. Aoya shares and real estate developers work together to create child-friendly communities. These communities are not only equipped with smart amusement facilities, but also introduce early education courses to provide children with a full range of growth environments. In addition, some leading companies are also accelerating overseas market expansion. For example, Cage Group has obtained the EU EN1176 safety certification, and its products have been successfully exported to more than 20 countries, demonstrating the industry’s international competitiveness.
6. Safety standards lead quality improvement
With the continuous improvement of national safety regulations, the new national standard in 2024 has put forward more stringent requirements for amusement facility materials, which must pass SGS non-toxic testing. Companies have increased their investment in research and development. For example, a manufacturer in Zhejiang has introduced an AI safety monitoring system that can analyze the load-bearing data of equipment in real time to ensure the safety performance of amusement facilities. At the same time, a third-party certification system is also being gradually established. TÜV SÜD has issued an international safety certification for the LALOT brand, thus promoting the standardized development of the industry.