With Australians predicted to spend more than $51 billion this Christmas, toy retailers should be gearing up for a very busy festive season.
According to the Australian Retailers Association (ARA)’s executive director, Russell Zimmerman, toys will be the number one choice and toy retailers’ stockings are going to be filled with children’s choice this Christmas.
“Last year we saw a significant amount of stock flying off the shelves during the pre-Christmas period,” he says.
“With a range of new and innovative products on offer, we encourage parents to get in quick and secure the perfect gift for their child this Christmas. Retailers also need to be prepared for the rush of parents trying to wrap up their purchases during the busy festive season.”
The collapse of Toys R Us provides a great opportunity for local retailers to step up, adds executive manager of the Australian Toy Association (ATA).
“While the toy industry has seen some disruptions recently, the demand for toys always remains high, and parents still prioritise purchasing toys for their children through bricks-and-mortar stores, which should provide some joy for local toy retailers this Christmas.”
While dolls and Lego are still top of the list, demand for new toys such as Gravitrax, an innovative marble run system encouraging children aged 8+ to build their own customised race tracks, and Treasure X Sets, designed for kids aged 5+ with adventurous and inquisitive minds.
“This year we are noticing a range of toys that are designed to stimulate imagination and creativity, which is a refreshing change from the technology-driven pattern we have seen in previous years,” adds Zimmerman.
Additionally, household goods will also record a significant increase in trade this Christmas according to the ARA and Roy Morgan, with over $9 billion expected to be spent, a two per cent increase from 2017.
“As the online retail market continues to expand, the ARA are also predicting online gift purchases to increase by 2.7 per cent with Australian shoppers expected to purchase many of their gifts online this year.”
