Holiday Toys Going Fast in Layaway Programs

Big chains ramp up programs, see early surge in shopping
By John Johnson,  Newser Staff
Posted Oct 4, 2012 6:58 PM CDT
Holiday Toys Going Fast in Layaway Programs
A Sears and Kmart delivery truck makes its way through New York's Times Square Wednesday. Kmart and Sears announced they will offer ship-to-home for layaway purchases this holiday season.   (Jason DeCrow/AP Images for Sears Holding Corporation)

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."
(More layaway stories.)

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