How to Create Holiday Hype Like the NeeDoh Craze

One free squishy toy stopped traffic across the country this fall. On Labor Day, 7 Brew gave customers a branded “Brew Doh” when they bought two medium or large drinks, and lines spilled onto surrounding roads with waits of about two and a half hours. In Denison, Texas, the crowd grew so large that more than half the police department directed traffic and the fire marshal closed the store for the day.

You don’t need a national chain’s budget to create that kind of excitement. You need the right item, the right offer, and a plan.

Why it worked

• It rode a trend people already wanted. Squishy toys are having an especially big moment in 2026, and some independent stores are struggling to keep them in stock.
• It was exclusive. The Brew Doh was 7 Brew’s own version, so customers couldn’t get it anywhere else.
• It required a purchase. Two drinks earned one toy, so the hype turned into sales.
• It was limited. It was a one-day event.
• Customers spread the word. Many people learned about the giveaway on TikTok.

What’s hot this season

Toys are a fast-growing holiday category, with online toy sales projected at $9.6 billion, up 9.6%. The top trends on this year’s lists include:

• Squishy and sensory toys, including slow-rise squishies and slime
• Collectibles, such as Pokémon cards for the brand’s 30th anniversary
• Screen-free gifts, like kids’ cameras and puzzles
• Nostalgia brands, including LEGO, Barbie, and Hot Wheels

Screen-free gifts aren’t just for kids. 64% of consumers say they’re prioritizing screen-free gifts this year.

How to create hype at your business

1. Pick a trend your customers already love. Watch what’s selling out and what kids and customers are talking about.
2. Make it yours. Partner with a local maker on a limited-edition item, or add your logo or holiday design.
3. Tie it to a purchase. Gift-with-purchase works. Buy-one-get-one is also shoppers’ most-wanted offer (36%).
4. Set a short window. Launch it on Small Business Saturday (Nov. 28) or another single day.
5. Give customers something to share. Post a teaser video and invite customers to tag you.
6. Plan for success. Set quantity limits, take pre-orders, and add staff so a crowd doesn’t turn into a problem.

How to stay on trend

• Check trending lists from major retailers each month.
• Follow TikTok and Instagram for products going viral in your category.
• Ask your suppliers what’s selling out with other customers.
• Listen to your own customers and staff.

Stock up before the trend peaks

Hype only pays off if you have the product on hand when demand spikes. An ARF Financial Bankroll revolving line of credit gives you funds to draw on for inventory and promotions as you need them. To keep payments lower through the season, look at our Interest-Only Bankroll.

Fund your holiday inventory today →