(Updated May 31, 2024)
As the warmer months approach, proactive business buyers are gearing up for a surge in seasonal sales. As consumer demand surges for seasonal products, it's crucial to stock up on the most in-demand items that marketing experts say customers are clamoring to buy.
This feature will explore the top-selling summer products -- ranging from sunglasses, dresses, toys and games, furniture and more -- that are poised to captivate both retailers and end-consumers alike.
Trending Summer Products for 2024
1. Swimwear
No summer wardrobe is complete without a stylish swimsuit or two. Swimwear sales are expected to surge by 98 percent this year, with baby and toddler swimwear leading the charge with a staggering 227 percent increase, according to research by Shopify. Buyers should look for trendy prints, bold colors, and innovative designs that offer both fashion and function. Offering a range of sizes and styles will ensure you cater to a diverse customer base.
2. Sunglasses
What says "summer" more than a pair of chic shades? Sunglasses are a must-have accessory for the season, with a wide variety of styles to choose from. From classic aviators to oversized cat-eyes, buyers should stock up on sunglasses that complement the latest summer fashion trends. Don't forget to offer polarized lenses for the ultimate in sun protection and glare reduction. Global sales of sunglasses are poised to expand. According to research by Custom Marketing Insights, the sunglasses market is set to experience a CAGR of 5.22 percent through 2033 from its projected yearend 2024 value of $24.1 billion.
3. Tumblers/Beverage containers
Staying hydrated is key during the hot summer months, and tumblers and other beverage containers are a practical and stylish way to do it. Look for bottles that feature insulation to keep drinks cold, as well as unique designs and colors that appeal to a younger demographic. Stainless steel and BPA-free plastic are popular materials that offer durability and safety. The global tumbler market, according to Transparency Research, was worth $1 billion in 2023. It is estimated to grow at an annual rate of 4.7 percent through 2032, by which time its value will be $1.6 billion.
4. Beach Towels
No beach day is complete without a cozy, oversized towel to lounge on. Beach towel sales have seen a significant boost, with some retailers reporting a 90 percent increase in sales, per Shopify. Buyers should look for towels that feature fun, summery prints and patterns, as well as those that are quick-drying and sand-resistant.
5. Inflatable Pool Toys
With more people opting to stay home and enjoy their own backyard oases, inflatable pool toys have become a hot commodity. From giant unicorn floats to oversized flamingo drink holders, these whimsical toys are perfect for creating Instagram-worthy pool parties. Buyers should look for toys that are durable, easy to inflate, and come in a variety of sizes to accommodate different pool depths.
6. Outdoor Games
As people spend more time outdoors, outdoor games have become a popular way to keep the whole family entertained. From classic lawn games like cornhole and giant Jenga to newer favorites like spike ball and Kubb – the Swedish lawn game that involves tossing wooden dowels -- these games offer a fun way to bring people together. Buyers should look for games that are easy to set up, durable, and suitable for a range of ages.
7. Sunscreen
Protecting one’s skin from the sun's harmful rays is essential during the summer months, and sunscreen sales have seen a significant boost as a result. Look for sunscreens that offer broad-spectrum protection, high SPF, and are water-resistant for maximum effectiveness. Buyers should also consider offering a range of formulas, from lotions to sprays, to cater to different preferences.
8. Summer Dresses
A summer wardrobe isn't complete without a few breezy dresses. From flirty sundresses to maxi dresses perfect for beach days, these versatile pieces are a must-have for the season. Buyers should look for dresses that feature lightweight fabrics, fun prints, and flattering silhouettes that appeal to a wide range of body types.
9. Outdoor Furniture
With more people spending time in their backyards and on their patios, outdoor furniture has become a hot commodity. From cozy hammocks to stylish patio sets, these pieces offer a comfortable and inviting way to enjoy the great outdoors. Buyers should look for furniture that is weather-resistant, easy to maintain, and comes in a variety of styles to suit different tastes. Beach chairs, according to Dropshipping.com’s blog Niche, are among the most profitable items to sell in summer.
10. Summer Toys
No summer is complete without a few fun toys to keep the kids entertained. From classic water guns to innovative new toys like the Pogo Stick Jumper, these items are sure to be popular among parents and kids alike. Buyers should look for toys that are safe, durable, and offer a range of play experiences to keep kids engaged.
11. Pet Products
Beyond the classic summer essentials, the Pet Supplies pavilion presents a unique growth opportunity. As pet ownership continues to soar worldwide, savvy buyers would be wise to expand their product mix to cater to this lucrative consumer segment. According to data from World Population Review, the top pet-owning countries are the US, China, the UK, Japan, the Philippines, and Germany. In the US alone, there are 69.9 million pet dogs and 74 million pet cats, while China boasts 27 million dogs and 53 million cats.
To capitalize on this trend, B2B buyers should stock their summer inventory with in-demand pet products, such as fetch toys, cooling pet beds, and cleaning wipes, as recommended by the World Pet Association
Summer Showroom
The Global Sources Summer Showroom is the one-stop-shop for B2B buyers searching for the hottest seasonal products and emerging trends. As temperatures rise and businesses gear up for the summer sales surge, this immersive online event offers professional buyers unparalleled access to a curated selection of top-selling essentials.
Explore four dynamic virtual pavilions showcasing the latest innovations across: Sports & Outdoors, Fashion Apparel & Accessories, Home & Kitchen, and Pet Supplies. Discover must-have swimwear, stylish sunglasses, practical water bottles, and a treasure trove of other sizzling summer favorites -- all vetted to elevate your product assortment and captivate consumers.
Beyond the seasonal staples, the Summer Showroom delivers inspiration to align your offerings with the market's evolving demands. Browse a diverse range of game-changing products from reliable suppliers, accessible conveniently from your office or home.
This exclusive virtual event empowers you to stay ahead of the curve, streamline sourcing, and unlock unprecedented opportunities for business growth. Schedule your visit to experience the future of dynamic online trade shows.
The Summer Showroom runs from June 4 to 28, 2024 on GlobalSources.com. Don't miss your chance to stay on top of the latest trends and stock up on the hottest products for summer.
