As we return to the back-to-school season, retailers have been noticing a shift. According to Deloitte’s 2025 Back-to-School Survey, overall spending is holding steady at around $30.9 billion, with the average household budget remaining flat compared to last year. Parents are becoming more cautious, focusing on value and making deliberate choices about where they spend their money. While this might initially seem like a reason to reduce stock or avoid premium products, the opposite may be true when it comes to stationery.
We have listed a few different reasons why you should stock certain items, depending on what suits you and your customers.
Branded and High-quality
Either the Care Bears or the Super Mario Metal Water Bottle would be a perfect companion to the Minecraft Bento Box
In times of tighter budgets, consumers tend to prioritise quality, longevity and brand trust. Multiple reports have shown that parents are willing to invest in products that provide both function and excitement. A study from Research and Markets highlights how branded school supplies significantly impact students’ creativity and motivation. This is where licensed stationery stands out. Items featuring popular characters from well-known franchises offer more than just functional value; they also provide emotional appeal and perceived quality too.
Custom Market Insights also supports this, highlighting a growing preference for high-quality licensed items with practical appeal. For instance, for lunchtime essential items like lunchboxes and water bottles, themed products such as the Minecraft Bento Box, the Super Mario Big Up Water Bottle or the Care Bears Metal Water Bottle are fantastic examples. These products add personality to everyday essentials by combining on-trend branding with practicality.
Evergreen Franchises for Consistency
A Harry Potter Backpack Buddy
As a shopkeeper, evergreen licenses present a valuable opportunity. Whilst generic supplies might carry a slightly lower price point, licensed stationery brings stronger shelf appeal and better margins. Characters like Super Mario, Hello Kitty and Minecraft have enduring popularity, so their appearance in our Backpack Buddies range makes these items more than just seasonal, but items that kids can continue to enjoy for years.
Not only that, but these smaller and more affordable items can offer a low-cost treat for children. They allow families to enjoy the excitement of back-to-school shopping without putting too much strain on their budget.
High-ticket and Lasting
The Minecraft 900ml Insulated Cup and Straw
Despite pressure on household budgets, many parents are still willing to pay a little more for items that feel worthwhile. A well-made, character-driven product offers both function and joy. For example the Minecraft 900ml Insulated Cup and Straw (available in both purple and green) has a durable design and lasting appeal, standing out as a high-quality piece that children are proud to use and parents are happy to invest in. This is especially relevant now, with the rise in popularity of reusable drinkware inspired by the Stanley Cup trend. These licensed items allow children to join in with current trends while showing off their favourite characters.
The Kuromi Fluffy Notebook
It’s not only parents who appreciate these products. Teachers also agree that children are more likely to stay engaged when they’re proud of their school gear. A colourful, character-themed item can make a real difference. For instance, the Kuromi Fluffy Notebook offers both tactile charm and writing functionality, making it an ideal addition to your stationery range. Not to mention how Hello Kitty and her friends are only growing in popularity, especially with the new Kuromi and My Melody series performing strongly on Netflix with high audience scores.
Now more than ever, parents want their money to go further. Licensed products help ensure that what they buy is not only useful but loved. So as you stock your shelves this season, lean into what truly sells. A curated selection of licensed stationery helps you meet customer demand while giving your store a distinct advantage in a competitive market.
Take a look at our various licensed collections here today. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, or would like more information on about our products, message at: info@paladone.com
