the essential
Toy stores are busy responding to the excitement of Christmas, between unmissable sales and meticulous organization.
As Christmas approaches, Montauban’s toy stores experience their busiest time of the year, when almost 50% of turnover is achieved. Between endless lists, crowded shelves and the hunt for the ideal gift, local brands like King Cadeau and JouéClub compete in ingenuity to satisfy young and old. This year, certain toys particularly stand out, symbolizing strong trends and confirming timeless classics.
In Montauban, one of the most popular products this season is the radio-controlled Gecko, a high-tech and surprising toy. This toy, capable of defying gravity by climbing walls, seduces children who are amazed by its prowess. “The Gecko arrived on the shelves a few weeks ago, and it is literally being sold out,” confides Jonathan Pierré, co-manager of King Cadeau Aussonne. “In one week alone, we even sold 120 of them. The advertising on TV and on social networks literally boosted this sale.”
At JouéClub, the Gecko is at the top of sales, closely followed by the Fabrique à Stylos. This creative kit allows children to design their own colorful pens, stimulating their imagination and manual skills. “It’s a product that appeals to both children and parents, because it combines pleasure and educational activity,” explains Grégory Lestrade, at the head of JouéClub Montauban for its third Christmas. These new products join up with sure values like Lego, always so popular thanks to their ability to bring together all generations around construction.”
Fine-grained organization
For both brands, this period requires flawless preparation. Kingtoy relies on optimized stock management and quick replenishments, while JouéClub relies on a personalized welcome to help customers make their choice from a plethora of options. “We have practically doubled our staff at the checkout and on the shelves to streamline the experience for buyers,” explains Grégory Lestrade. “Since the distribution of our traditional Christmas catalog in October, sales have accelerated.”
DDM – PhC
Sales which last until the last minute, December 24, but which begin earlier and earlier, as Jonathan Pierré notes: “Black Friday at the end of November has become over the years a fantastic trigger for purchases Christmas, which makes it possible to further smooth out this end-of-year activity. But to meet the demand 7 days a week, we called on staff to cover this month of December.
As the countdown to Christmas accelerates, Montauban’s toy stores are busy ensuring that every child finds their treasure under the tree. Whether it’s a cutting-edge toy or a timeless box of Lego, the magic of Christmas continues.
