This week Toys R Us became the latest U.S. retailer to declare bankruptcy, filing for Chapter 11 in hopes of reorganizing and restructuring some $5 billion in debt. We’re not optimistic about the future of this once-ubiquitous chain. Toy sales have been migrating not only to the web, where prices are lower and inventory endless, but also to stores like Walmart and Target where time-pressed shoppers can tackle their entire to-do list without making an extra stop for birthday gifts. In our area, where Toys R Us exited Rockville three years ago, local stores like Toy Castle and Child’s Play have stayed in business by adding value with personalized service, knowledgeable staff and extras like free gift-wrapping.
