Creative Marketing Ideas for Toy Stores

Toy stores have to market to two different audiences: children, who are the end users, and parents, who are the buyers. Having only one marketing strategy will not be very effective for your toy store, as it will only reach a part of your market. It is best to use a combination of media and messages to attract children and their parents. At least one of these suggestions could be a great option for your toy store.

  1. Wish lists– Each child has a list of toys they want for Christmas or their birthday. Encourage your clients to bring their children to create a formal wish list, either on paper or electronic (like a wedding registry). This is a fun process for the kid and gets customers to enter your store at least twice (once to register and once to buy). They can distribute the list to family and friends, which could bring you even more clients.
  2. Birthday specials– Similarly, all children like to feel special on their birthday. Print vinyl decals to display at your checkout station to let parents know that you will be emailing them a special coupon on their child’s birthday. The child can enter and choose the merchandise that they will receive for free, or at least with a discount. This makes the child happy and the parents even happier, because they are saving money.
  3. Used toy units– Show that you care for the community by organizing used toy drives at your store or even in town. By donating used toys with carelessness, potential customers will need a replacement and since they are already in your store, they are likely to buy! If they need a little more encouragement, offer them a discount coupon for donating.
  4. Parent seminars– Here’s another great way to attract parents. Organize conferences and seminars in your store that parents will want to attend. Be sure to present these classes in your store with large, easy-to-read banners so parents know when and where the classes are. Use your employee’s knowledge, or even work with your vendors, to inform parents about the latest child safety products, current recalls, or even fun party planning ideas. Of course, you will need to provide child care during these events, but this is to your advantage. What father takes his son to a toy store and does not buy them? something?
  5. New toy launch events– There is an “it” toy every season. From Furbys to Tickle-Me-Elmo, toy makers work very hard to create a “have to have it” mentality in the minds of children and their parents. Use this to your advantage. When the cool new toy is about to be released, throw a party at your store. Customers will come hoping to be the first person in the area to get their hands on the new toy. The print window sticks to display in its window showing pictures of the toy and when it will be released, so that customers are well prepared for the launch.

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