B1 – Intermediate
The collectible plush toys Labubu has become a global phenomenon over night. It is interesting how a character could become a viral trend worldwide.
Everyone wants a piece of this toy. It doesn’t matter that they are expensive and sometimes hard to come by. Many have become a fan and wish to collect every piece of Labubu.
Pop Mart, the maker of Labubu, learned a thing or two about their business strategy from Disney.
Listen to this audio and read the transcript about what Labubu maker Pop Mart learned from Disney’s business strategy.
https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/labubu-maker-learns-from-disney-level-3
Vocabulary Questions:
- Define “intellectual property”. “Like Disney’s Mickey Mouse, Labubu is becoming a strong intellectual property with potential for theme parks, entertainment, and merchandise.” Use the term in a sentence.
- What does “one big hit” mean? “Pop Mart doesn’t want only one big hit. Instead, it hopes to create five to ten characters with similar global potential.” Use the idiom in a sentence.
- What does “to enter the market” mean? “Labubu’s success has also increased competition in China’s art toy industry, where many new companies and artists are trying to enter the market.” Use the term in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- Do you think Pop Mart has what it takes to stay relevant long-term? Share your thoughts on Pop Mart Labubu’s global success.
- Pop Mart’s strategy is inspired by Disney, aiming to turn short-term popularity into long-term growth. What is your opinion about this business strategy?
- Talk about another company/business/brand that you know used the same strategy.
- What is your reaction to this: Pop Mart is now more valuable than major toy makers like Hasbro, Mattel, and Sanrio.
- Do you know any famous toy makers from your country? Talk about their business. How well do you think they do in the global market?