Books: The book is back. Some might contest that it never disappeared, but in the age of the internet, its resurgence both in education and as a desirable leisure pastime is notable. In education, deteriorating rates of literacy and numeracy have prompted a return to basics and to tried and tested methods of teaching. The appeal of the book to young readers owes much to the phenomenal success of authors such as J K Rowling and Philip Pullman, to name but two catalysts. If anything, dramatic adaptations of their works to stage and screen have increased the drive towards reading for pleasure.

Boxed products: Boxes, particularly those used in educational products, continue to be popular.

Ancillary products: Teaching aids such as glove puppets, complementary to books or boxed series in the educational field, are a growth market. Ancillary products are also being used by publishers as promotional tools and sales motivators.

Fancy finishes: Flocking, holographic printing and lenticula are increasingly being used for their tactile properties and ability to attract and hold attention. These are especially popular in educational products aimed at young pupils with short attention spans.