Squishy Dumplings toy craze grips Switzerland, causing shortages

A soft toy called Squishy Dumplings has become a craze in Switzerland, causing supply shortages among retailers due to high demand from both children and adults. The toys, which are squishy figures shaped like dumplings in steam baskets, are used by some parents as motivation for homework. Swiss online retailer Galaxus reports sales in the thousands since May, with June sales up 61 percent from the previous month. The toys feature a surprise element, as colors are hidden until opened, driving collecting behavior. Adults also buy them for stress relief, with women making three-quarters of purchases. Other food-shaped squishy toys, like butter blocks, are also gaining popularity.