[T16skyhopp]

Just a public service announcement regard Carle Place TRU. Apparently, as of about 3pm today, the Carle Place Toys R Us has become part of the "bump-up" program. All prices have risen for the boys toys/collector products. TF Deluxes are at $17, Voyagers are $30. All Hasbro 3 3/4" figure lines are over $11. I won't be shopping there and hopefully many others won't as well and the prices will come back down to the "already a little high but still reasonable" TRU range.

Right now I know there are multiple "$5 off of $25 / $10 off of $50" coupons in circulation for the next two months. I hope that maybe once these coupons end prices will come back down.

It pains me because I want to support TRU. They are the last true toy store, all of my childhood toys and toy memories came from them and they were one of the first places I worked (and for being shitty and retail I still had a good time with good people). I don't mind paying a little more to shop there. I know they can't cut toy prices and make up their profits on clothes, toiletries or produce like Target and Walmart do (Toys are "loss-leaders" at Target and Walmart. They actually take a loss on them hoping that by getting moms and dads into the store to buy cheaper toys, they will pick up other things they need and want, thus bringing the profit. Toys R Us is just incapable of this business model).

This pricing brings this store more in line with NYC locations, so for some this will be no big deal. I know we still also have it better than most foreign collectors in price and availability. In the grand scheme of things its not that important. I will just wait for Target and Walmart to get stuff in. Toys are not serious business (unless you are in the business of toys). But I am still kinda bummed the eff out.