Toys R Us is making a grand comeback to Melbourne after a five-year hiatus!
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We have good news for the grandkids and even those with a soft spot for a bit of nostalgia! The iconic children's store, Toys R Us, is finally returning to Australia after closing its doors five years ago, leaving 700 people without jobs.
A little trip down memory lane: Toys R Us was founded in the US in 1948 and quickly became a worldwide household name.
With its diverse range of toys, games, and children's products, it was often referred to as a 'one-stop-shop' for families seeking quality entertainment for their kids.
You might recall the beloved retailer once boasted 44 stores across the country but was sadly forced to close in 2018 due to financial difficulties.
Since then, however, the company was bought by Hobby Warehouse and made a more modest return as an online-only store in 2019, operating from a Victorian base.
Well, it seems Toys R Us is rising like a phoenix from the ashes, as they've just announced the exciting plan to open a megastore in Clayton, located in Melbourne's Southeast.
And this time, it's not just the kids who are in for a treat!
The new 3000-square-metre warehouse-style store will not only include the classic Toys R Us selection but will also bring back Babies R Us.
But wait, there’s more: the shopping precinct is set to feature a café (perfect for our mid-shopping coffee fix), kids' activities, and even a robot-run warehouse that can be observed by the public—talk about a trip down memory lane mixed with modern technology!
This exciting venture was made possible after the brand was purchased by Funtastic in 2021, which later changed its name to Toys R Us.
As part of their grand return, the company announced that they would be raising $8 million in capital to kickstart the new warehouse project. They're aiming for a minimum subscription of at least $5 million from interested parties to get it up and running.
You might be wondering, 'What else are they planning with the remaining funds?' Well, that's where things get even more thrilling.
They've detailed plans to use the rest of the money towards other projects such as a massive overhaul of their computer systems and broadening their reach in the UK.
Considering taking the grandkids for a visit? Here are a few shopping tips:
Let's take a quick stroll down memory lane and remember some of the popular toys and trends from the past: Tamagotchi, the digital pets that took the world by storm in the '90s; Cabbage Patch Kids, the unique and collectible dolls; and LEGO sets, the timeless and versatile building blocks.
These beloved toys, alongside countless others, have brought joy to generations of children —and their parents and grandparents!
So, get ready for an exciting new chapter of Toys R Us, where we can reminisce over childhood memories, explore new innovations in the toy world, and maybe even find that one special toy we never got as kids!
Are you excited about the grand comeback of Toys R Us? What are some of your favourite childhood memories associated with the iconic toy store? Share your thoughts, anticipation, and any nostalgic toy stories you have in relation to Toys R Us!
Toys R Us has recently revealed its intentions to open a store in Australia, marking a comeback after shutting down 44 locations five years ago. Image from flickr
A little trip down memory lane: Toys R Us was founded in the US in 1948 and quickly became a worldwide household name.
With its diverse range of toys, games, and children's products, it was often referred to as a 'one-stop-shop' for families seeking quality entertainment for their kids.
You might recall the beloved retailer once boasted 44 stores across the country but was sadly forced to close in 2018 due to financial difficulties.
Since then, however, the company was bought by Hobby Warehouse and made a more modest return as an online-only store in 2019, operating from a Victorian base.
Well, it seems Toys R Us is rising like a phoenix from the ashes, as they've just announced the exciting plan to open a megastore in Clayton, located in Melbourne's Southeast.
And this time, it's not just the kids who are in for a treat!
The new 3000-square-metre warehouse-style store will not only include the classic Toys R Us selection but will also bring back Babies R Us.
But wait, there’s more: the shopping precinct is set to feature a café (perfect for our mid-shopping coffee fix), kids' activities, and even a robot-run warehouse that can be observed by the public—talk about a trip down memory lane mixed with modern technology!
This exciting venture was made possible after the brand was purchased by Funtastic in 2021, which later changed its name to Toys R Us.
As part of their grand return, the company announced that they would be raising $8 million in capital to kickstart the new warehouse project. They're aiming for a minimum subscription of at least $5 million from interested parties to get it up and running.
The upcoming shopping precinct will feature a range of exciting amenities, including a café, kids' activities, and a robot-operated warehouse that will be accessible for public viewing. Image from flickr
You might be wondering, 'What else are they planning with the remaining funds?' Well, that's where things get even more thrilling.
They've detailed plans to use the rest of the money towards other projects such as a massive overhaul of their computer systems and broadening their reach in the UK.
Considering taking the grandkids for a visit? Here are a few shopping tips:
- Keep an eye out for age recommendations on toy packaging to ensure the toy is suitable for your grandchild
- Sign up for loyalty programs to avail the best deals and discounts
- Most importantly, have fun exploring the store together!
Cabbage Patch Kids were wildly popular and highly sought-after dolls among children and collectors alike. Image from flickr
Let's take a quick stroll down memory lane and remember some of the popular toys and trends from the past: Tamagotchi, the digital pets that took the world by storm in the '90s; Cabbage Patch Kids, the unique and collectible dolls; and LEGO sets, the timeless and versatile building blocks.
These beloved toys, alongside countless others, have brought joy to generations of children —and their parents and grandparents!
So, get ready for an exciting new chapter of Toys R Us, where we can reminisce over childhood memories, explore new innovations in the toy world, and maybe even find that one special toy we never got as kids!
Are you excited about the grand comeback of Toys R Us? What are some of your favourite childhood memories associated with the iconic toy store? Share your thoughts, anticipation, and any nostalgic toy stories you have in relation to Toys R Us!
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