Discover how a nostalgic hobby is becoming a modern design statement.

  • Match collecting, known as phillumeny, is experiencing a resurgence among younger generations.
  • TikTok plays a significant role in popularizing matchbook collecting and related DIY art.
  • Etsy reports a 92% increase in searches for matchbook art in the past three months.
  • Custom match sales have risen by 40% as people buy them for home entertaining.
  • Brands like Kate Spade have capitalized on the trend with match-themed accessories that go viral.
  • Collecting matches is seen as a nostalgic hobby that reflects a certain lifestyle.
  • Younger collectors focus on aesthetic-driven goals, choosing matches that represent their experiences.
  • Longtime collectors appreciate matches for their historical significance.

Across the United States, a new trend is emerging as young people dive into the world of match collecting, known as phillumeny. This pocket-sized treasure hunt involves gathering branded matches from bars, restaurants, hotels, and shops. Social media platforms like TikTok are fueling this passion, with users sharing their matchbook finds and DIY art projects that showcase their collections. nnThe interest in matchbooks is not just a fleeting fad; it reflects a nostalgic return to a time when matches were common advertising tools. Recent data shows that searches for matchbook art on Etsy have surged by 92% compared to last year. Additionally, custom match sales have increased by 40% as people purchase them for home entertaining, with the average order size being around 50 matchbooks. nnD.D. Bean & Sons Co., a match manufacturer, has also seen a 15-20% rise in orders for their advertising line, indicating a steady growth in the match industry. Brands like Kate Spade have tapped into this trend, launching match-themed accessories that have gone viral, selling out multiple times. nnFor many collectors, matches symbolize a lifestyle filled with dining out and socializing, often serving as souvenirs from memorable experiences. Younger collectors are particularly drawn to matches that reflect their personal aesthetics and the places they frequent. nnAs the trend continues to grow, it’s clear that match collecting is more than just a hobby; it’s a way for individuals to connect with their past while embracing a modern, curated lifestyle. Whether for their historical significance or their aesthetic appeal, matchbooks are making a comeback in a big way.·

Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides a well-researched overview of the resurgence of interest in collecting matchbooks, supported by statistics and quotes from industry professionals. It avoids sensationalism and presents information in a clear manner. However, some sections could be seen as slightly tangential, focusing on personal anecdotes that, while interesting, do not directly contribute to the main topic of phillumeny.·
Noise Level: 6
Noise Justification: The article provides an interesting overview of the resurgence of matchbook collecting, particularly among younger generations, and includes various anecdotes and statistics that support the trend. However, it lacks deeper analysis of the implications of this trend or its broader societal context, which limits its overall impact and depth.·
Public Companies: Etsy (ETSY), Kate Spade New York (KATE)
Private Companies: For Your Party,D.D. Bean & Sons Co.,Oh, What a Match!,Don Angie,The Ivy,The Ivy at the Shore
Key People: Sari Mintz (Owner and President of For Your Party), Brooks Gunderson (Vice President of Operations at D.D. Bean & Sons Co.), Regina Clark (National Sales Manager and Head of Customer Support at D.D. Bean & Sons Co.), Jennifer Lyu (Senior Vice President and Head of Design at Kate Spade), Olivia Cheng (Founder of Dauphinette), Alice Cavallo (Creative Director and Co-Founder of Oh, What a Match!), Denise McKinney (President of the Rathkamp Matchcover Society), Angie Rito (Chef and Owner of Don Angie), Scott Tacinelli (Chef and Owner of Don Angie), India Irving (Operator at The Ivy and The Ivy at the Shore)


Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: The article discusses the increase in sales for match manufacturers and related businesses, indicating a positive impact on their financial performance.
Financial Rating Justification: The article highlights a resurgence in the popularity of match collecting, leading to increased sales for companies like D.D. Bean & Sons Co. and custom party supply businesses, which directly relates to financial markets and consumer spending trends.·
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: No
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: The article discusses a cultural trend related to collecting matchbooks and does not mention any extreme events.·
Move Size: 15 to 20% increase in orders for their advertising line

Reported publicly: www.wsj.com