(Newser)
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Brace yourself, parents. Some of this year's hottest Christmas toys might be in short supply come December thanks to an early surge in layaway programs, reports the Wall Street Journal. Most of the big players, including Toys 'R' Us, Walmart, and Sears, have dropped or reduced layaway fees, added incentives, and rolled out plans a month early in September. It's working. Electronic tablets for kids and Wii U gaming consoles are among the items already going fast. What's more, stores have expanded layaway categories, so more than just toys are affected.
Don't think this is serious business? We can only quote the Journal:
- "At numerous Toys "R' Us stores, shoppers have put on layaway all the available $60 talking Furby dolls in 'pink puff' or 'voodoo purple' colors, forcing more people to opt for the 'plum fairy,' the retailer said."
