Toys “R” Us is returning to the Australian market with some changes
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Australian shoppers welcome the return of Toys "R" Us and New Zealand shoppers will say hello for the very first time.
It's been a year since Toys "R" Us announced stores would be closing down around Australia. One of Australia's most iconic toy stores went into voluntary administration and hundreds of Australians were left without a job. Twelve months have passed, and as of recent news, Toys "R" Us and Babies "R" Us will be returning to the Australian market with some new and exciting changes.
Through an exclusive licensing agreement with Hobby Warehouse, the giant will be selling toys through the Toys "R" Us and Babies "R" Us websites in both Australia and New Zealand. The new owners of the toy stores Tru Kids Inc has made the decision, with new brands such as Fastlane and Koala Kids planned to be emerging instore. And for the first time ever, the toy store will have a presence in the New Zealand market and the results could be promising.
When will this begin? It turns out, it's sooner than we think! The launch date of the online store is 12 June and that's when you can start buying toys again. There are talks of smaller stores opening in 2020, which will bring a more personalised experience during toy shopping. Children will be able to play with the toys and get to know them, before buying.
Louis Mittoni, Hobby Warehouse chief executive and director of Toys "R" Us said: "We are delighted to bring the much-loved brands of Toys "R" Us and Babies "R" Us back to Australia and introduce them to New Zealand. Our mission is to encourage children to engage with as many forms of play as we possibly can. Hobby Warehouse is a digital native with a keen understanding of how to accelerate and match the requirements of the modern shopper."
One of the problems with the toy store which may have led to its downfall was its inability to recognise the changes in shopping and the move into the digital market. But now, things are changing and it seems as though there is a better understanding of the digital space. The focus will be online as the modern average consumer wants to shop online. It is easier, especially with kids, and it can be done from the comfort of your own home.
Looking for new toys to buy your loved ones? The EOFY sales are in full swing and you can shop from a range of stores that are just like Toys "R" Us. You can see our comprehensive list of the end of financial year sales right here.
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