Toy manufacturer Jellycat is poised to distribute £110 million in dividends to its owners following a significant surge in annual profits during 2024.
Jellycat’s whimsical range, featuring everything from melancholic eggs to cheerful peanuts, has cultivated a notable presence within the toy industry.
The company’s globally distributed plush toys propelled pre-tax profits to £139 million in 2024, a substantial increase from the £67 million recorded the previous year.
Arnaud Meysselle, Chief Executive Officer, expressed that Jellycat is “humbled” by its expansion and remains committed to “bring[ing] more characters to life.”
Thomas Gatacre, Jellycat’s founder and chairman, articulated the company’s mission: “to create joy and try to be the most loved soft toy company in the world.”
According to a report by the Financial Times, Jellycat’s latest filings with Companies House indicate a 66% revenue increase to £333 million for the year ending December 31.
The proposed dividend payout for the privately held company represents a 75% increase from the £63 million disbursed to owners in the prior year.
Mr. Gatacre noted that the Jellycat team has been operating at an accelerated pace to meet the demand for its products across 80 countries.
He further stated the company’s dedication to ensuring “every Jellycat arrives in tip top condition, build to last, and made responsibly.”
Jellycat’s success is attributed, in part, to its prominence on social media and a growing trend of adults purchasing toys for personal enjoyment.
Beyond retail sales, Jellycat offers a variety of immersive pop-up “experiences.”
Currently at Selfridges in London, customers can purchase plush fish and chips from staff role-playing as cooks who prepare and season the selected items.
In New York, a Jellycat diner is available, while Paris features a Jellycat patisserie, both attracting significant queues of adult consumers.
Online videos showcasing these experiences have garnered millions of views, effectively leveraging consumer-generated content for promotional purposes.