When did toys r us close?

By HotBotUpdated: July 3, 2024

Answer

The Rise and Fall of Toys R Us

Toys R Us, the quintessential toy store of many childhoods, left an indelible mark on the retail landscape. The company's closure is a tale of nostalgia, economic pressures, and evolving consumer habits.

The Early Years and Peak

Founded in April 1948 by Charles Lazarus, Toys R Us began as a baby furniture store named Children's Bargain Town in Washington, D.C. Lazarus's vision and innovation transformed it into a toy retailer, and in 1957 the first Toys R Us branded store opened, adopting a supermarket-style format that allowed for a self-service shopping experience.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Toys R Us expanded globally, becoming a household name. The company's mascot, Geoffrey the Giraffe, became an emblem of childhood joy. At its peak, Toys R Us operated over 1,500 stores worldwide and was the go-to destination for toys, games, and children's products.

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Challenges in the New Millennium

Despite its dominance, Toys R Us began facing challenges in the early 2000s. The rise of e-commerce giants like Amazon and the increasing popularity of big-box retailers like Walmart and Target started to erode its market share. These competitors offered a wider array of products and often at lower prices. Additionally, the convenience of online shopping began to appeal more to consumers.

Another significant challenge was the company's debt. In 2005, Toys R Us was taken private in a leveraged buyout by private equity firms Bain Capital, Kohlberg Kravis Roberts, and Vornado Realty Trust. This move saddled the company with $5 billion in debt, requiring substantial interest payments that hampered its ability to invest in its stores and online presence.

The Decline and Bankruptcy

By the mid-2010s, Toys R Us was struggling to compete. The company attempted to revive its fortunes through various strategies, including revamping stores, enhancing its e-commerce capabilities, and exclusive product offerings. However, these efforts were insufficient to counteract the mounting pressures.

In September 2017, Toys R Us filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the United States. The company aimed to restructure its debt and reinvest in its operations. Unfortunately, the holiday season of 2017 did not generate the expected sales boost, and by March 2018, Toys R Us announced it would shut down all its U.S. stores.

Closure Timeline

The closure of Toys R Us stores was a gradual process. Here is a timeline of significant events leading to the final closure:

- March 14, 2018: Toys R Us announced plans to liquidate its U.S. operations, affecting approximately 735 stores and around 33,000 employees.

- April 24, 2018: The company began the process of closing its U.S. stores, starting with clearance sales.

- June 29, 2018: The last Toys R Us stores in the United States officially closed their doors. This marked the end of an era for many who grew up visiting the toy retailer.

International Impact

The impact of Toys R Us's closure was not confined to the United States. The company also faced challenges in its international markets, leading to various outcomes:

- United Kingdom: Toys R Us UK entered administration in February 2018, leading to the closure of all its stores by April 24, 2018.

- Canada: The Canadian arm of Toys R Us managed to survive, as it was profitable. It was eventually sold to Fairfax Financial Holdings, allowing it to continue operating its stores.

- Asia: Toys R Us Asia, which operated stores in countries like Japan, China, and Southeast Asia, was also able to continue its operations. It was later acquired by Fung Retailing and other investors.

The Aftermath and Legacy

The closure of Toys R Us left a void in the toy retail market. Competitors, both online and brick-and-mortar, quickly moved to capture the market share left behind. However, the brand's legacy persisted.

In November 2018, plans were announced to revive the Toys R Us brand under a new entity, Tru Kids Brands, which acquired the rights to the name, Geoffrey the Giraffe, and other intellectual properties. Tru Kids Brands aimed to re-establish Toys R Us through pop-up shops, partnerships, and e-commerce.

Attempts at Revival

The revival efforts saw mixed results. In 2019, Tru Kids opened two Toys R Us stores in the United States, located in Houston, Texas, and Paramus, New Jersey. These stores focused on interactive experiences and smaller footprints. However, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 forced the closure of these stores.

Despite these setbacks, the Toys R Us brand continues to have a presence through partnerships with retailers like Macy's, which announced plans to open Toys R Us shop-in-shops within its department stores starting in 2021.

The story of Toys R Us is a poignant reminder of the rapidly changing retail landscape and the challenges faced by even the most iconic brands. It also underscores the enduring power of nostalgia and the emotional connections that brands can create with their customers. As new generations discover toys in different ways, the spirit of Toys R Us may find new avenues to thrive, leaving us to ponder the future of retail and the lasting impact of our childhood memories.