Happy New Year! What Can Lego Teach Us About Change?
Happy New Year! 🎉 Let’s kick off 2025 with an inspiring story about Lego, a company that has shaped childhoods and continues to adapt in a fast-changing world. Here’s a quick summary of an article I read in The Economist about how Lego is balancing tradition with innovation and sustainability.
Sammary:
Lego has remained a leader in the toy industry for decades, but the company faces growing challenges. These include competing with the digital world for children’s attention and addressing the environmental impact of their plastic bricks. To stay relevant, Lego is focusing on creating digital experiences with Epic Games and working toward more sustainable materials for their products.
Key Points:
Lego’s Origins and Success: Founded in 1932, Lego switched from wooden toys to plastic bricks in 1958. Today, it’s the world’s largest toymaker, with record profits and a loyal following.
Competing with Screens: With kids spending 4-6 hours a day on screens, Lego is working with Epic Games to create engaging digital experiences, like games, to connect with younger audiences.
Sustainability Goals: Lego is working to replace fossil fuel-based plastic with renewable materials by 2032. It’s an expensive and challenging process, but the company is committed to reducing its carbon footprint.
Adult Fans: A growing number of adults enjoy Lego, making up one-fifth of the company’s sales. Elaborate sets with thousands of pieces are especially popular.
Challenges Ahead: Balancing sustainability, staying relevant in the digital age, and maintaining its “play well” philosophy are all critical for Lego’s future.
My Thoughts
I’ve always loved Lego because it lets me take a break from screens and use my hands—it feels real and rewarding. But Lego’s journey makes me think: can they really balance tradition and innovation while staying eco-friendly?
Here are some questions for you to think about:
How has Lego stayed so popular for so many years? Can you share an example?
Lego plans to make eco-friendly bricks. What problems and benefits do you think this will bring?
Why is working with Epic Games important for Lego? How does this fit their idea of “play well”?
Let’s start the new year with curiosity and creativity. I can’t wait to hear your thoughts!
