1982 in the UK

My Little Pony began in America in late 1982. The previous year, a larger plastic pony toy known as the "My Pretty Pony" had been on sale, and this is generally considered to be My Little Pony's predecessor. This was sold in the United Kingdom in the autumn of 1982.

There is some dispute as to whether My Little Pony officially began in 1982 or 1983. Most recent retro releases have dated the 40th anniversary back to 1983 (making it 2023), but Hasbro themselves designated 1992 the 'tenth anniversary' back during Generation 1.

The most likely answer is that Hasbro launched My Little Pony formally in the 1983 catalogue but brought out the first flat foot ponies in time for Christmas 1982. This is supported by anecdotal evidence from US collectors around that time.

Sales of My Little Pony in the United Kingdom began in 1983, mostly through imports. Hasbro UK's official inception of My Little Pony dates from 1985, but the Grooming Parlour was on sale in 1983, and ponies on UK style cards started appearing on shelves in 1984.