Jellycat and the Rise of Collectible Plush Toys

Jellycat is a British brand known for its imaginative designer plush toys. Founded in London in 1999, it has transformed a childhood favourite into a must-have for adults and collectors alike. The brand was founded by British brothers Thomas and William Gatacre, and even its name has an unusual story. According to the British press, it was Thomas's seven-year-old son who suggested combining the words Jelly and Cat. The name stuck because it was playful, quirky and impossible to forget.

Today, Jellycat is home to several instantly recognisable collections. There's Bashful Bunny, the long-eared rabbit that has become one of the brand's most iconic characters, alongside the Amuseables, a playful collection that brings everyday objects to life, from croissants, avocados and coffee cups to plants, fruit and sweet treats. Then there are the Fuddlewuddles, beloved for their irresistibly soft, fluffy fur and unmistakably cuddly appearance, as well as dragons, little monsters and fantastical creatures that have become favourites among collectors and lovers of playful home décor.

In 2023, Jellycat opened the Jellycat Diner in New York, bringing the charm of a classic American diner to life. Visitors can "order" burgers, hot dogs and other dishes, all reimagined as plush toys, while staff put on a playful performance, preparing each purchase as though it were a real food order. Its success inspired more immersive experiences, including a patisserie in Paris and a fish and chip shop in London.

Jellycat has a talent for bringing stories to life, turning an ordinary plush toy into something to treasure.