Why China’s Gen Z is turning to plush toys and AI for emotional support


More than 90% of Chinese consumers born after 1995 recognise the importance of emotional value and seek it in their spending. — SCMP

Facing fierce competition at school and in the workplace, as well as an uncertain future amid a sluggish economy, China’s Generation Z consumers have come to see plush toy animals and artificial intelligence companions as essentials.

More than 90% of Chinese consumers born after 1995 recognise the importance of emotional value and seek it in their spending, on everything from plush toys and concerts to physical or virtual companions, according to a recent report by the social media platform Soul App and the Shanghai Youth Research Centre.

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