Traditional Gifts Are Better At Christmas
Even though the Zhu Zhu Pets were only launched in August of 2009, they have become a huge success already. Kids across the country have just gone crazy for the cute little robotic hamsters that include artificial intelligence which permits them to interact with their surroundings, other Zhu Zhu hamsters and the children who are playing with them.
Besides the fact that these robot hamsters are small, cute and furry, kids just love the interaction. The gang of hamsters – Mr. Squiggles, Chunk, Pipsqueak, Patches and Num Nums – have a library of 40 different noises which they emit when given the appropriate cue. For instance, if they go into the bathroom of their hamster habitat, they produce tooth brushing noises. If they go into their hamster bedroom then they produce snoring noises.
However, lots of retailers have quite deliberately set stock levels of toys in general at relatively low levels this year. This is partly due to the present economic climate and partly due to the fact that stock levels were excessively high last year. A lot of retailers had to make large discounts in order to empty their shelves.
It’s easy to understand the reasoning behind the decision – but based upon the evidence to date, the retailers may have misread the mood of consumers. Popular toys like the Zhu Zhu pets and Mattel’s Mindflex game are flying off the shelves. Demand is much higher than supply and it’s becoming hard to find these toys in the shops. This is only going to get worse in the run up to Christmas.
Having realised their mistake, many retailers are now arranging new stock. However, most toys are manufactured in the Far East today. This means that delivery may well include a sea voyage of four weeks or so. Replenishing stocks before Christmas could prove difficult.
As a result of the disparity between supply and demand, it is now possible to find Zhu Zhu hamsters on eBay for over $ 150. That’s way higher than the recommended retail price – and these prices could rise even further as we approach Christmas. It does seem like an excessive price to pay for a child’s toy which, although it is the latest fad, is highly likely to be yesterday’s news in just a few short months.
If you don’t want to pay an excessive price for the latest trend, then you could always consider more traditional gifts this Christmas. Classic traditional toys such as Lego, Monopoly, Scrabble and Hornby Dublo train sets are classics for a reason. They are an ever popular addition to any kid’s toy box and they will most likely still be in use and giving enjoyment long after this year’s craze is forgotten.
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