Who can forget the iconic Toys R Us adverts of the 90s with their catchy sing along theme – we can’t, and we love it.
Toys “R” Us UK was launched by the American toy giant as its first European operation, with the first UK stores opening on 6 September 1985 in Woking and Wood Green, followed quickly by branches in Cardiff and Bristol.
Through the late 1980s and 1990s, the brand became iconic, operating large warehouse-style toy stores across the country — many kids’ first choice for Christmas and birthdays. At its peak, the chain had over 105 stores nationwide, selling everything from games and dolls to board games and bikes.
Like many big retailers, Toys “R” Us struggled in the 2010s with rising debt, online competition, and changing shopping habits. In late 2017, it announced plans to close at least 26 UK stores as part of financial restructuring.
After accruing £15 million in unpaid taxes and failing to find a buyer, the UK business entered administration on 28 February 2018.
A liquidation sale followed, and by 24 April 2018, all UK Toys “R” Us stores had closed, ending 32+ years of physical toy-store trading.
Go on… have a sing along!
There’s a magical place
We’re on our way there
With toys in their millions
All under one roof
It’s called Toys R Us!
Soon after bedtime
When dark nighttime falls
Geoffrey and helpers
Stock up on the shelves
From ceiling to floor
Books, board games and bikes
Teddies, puppets and dolls
Bats, spaceships and trikes
“There’s millions,” says Geoffrey,
“All under one roof.”
It’s called Toys R Us! Toys R Us! Toys R Us!
