Free local delivery, outdoor toys, games and puzzles. These are some of the lines that have kept on selling for Jon Starling, owner of Starlings Toys – a five store Toymaster member and winner of several industry awards, calling PreschoolNews.net for a chat today.
“The situation is, of course, hugely difficult and the effects will be felt for some time. In the meantime all we can do is adapt and survive,” Jon told PreschoolNews.net.
He continued: “However, there is trade coming through as kids need to be entertained while they’re at home, and we’ve learned a few new tricks in terms of getting product out to people. We’ve been offering free, local safe delivery of products requested, plus we’ve helped offer some inspiration such as our Garden Toy Deal which offers a bundle of great outdoor products for a set price. It’s not the level of trade we would like, or we need, but it’s something to help settle some bills and of course being able to keep our customers happy is a huge positive – it’s the heart of what we want to achieve.”
Jon also said that suppliers have been helpful and they had been in regular communication with them regarding product and payment.
He concluded: “We’d had our summer stock arrive just prior to the current situation, which is good, but we are fearful of the timing and lack of retail opening at such a key time of year. My best case scenario – a great, hot summer and a real appetite for consumer shopping – let’s hope!”
