Iconic store Toys “R” Us is filing for bankruptcy this week. Even with the news, the company still plans on operating around 1,600 stores around the world, due to a new debt structure.
One major reason for the company’s decline is due to online retailer Amazon. In the early 2000s, the company set up a deal with the retailer that didn’t end up working for both parties, and eventually ended with a lot of litigation. Also, Walmart has been increasing toy sales rapidly over the past decade and now they are the largest toy retailer in the world. Another reason for the company’s struggle is that more children are using tablets instead of physical toys.
“We are confident that these are the right steps to ensure that the iconic Toys “R” Us and Babies “R” Us brands live on for many generations,” said Dave Brandon, Toys “R” Us CEO. Since 1948, the company has sold many toys that have unquestionably shaped millions of people’s childhoods.
Here is a look at the 20 of the most iconic toys of all time:
1. Etch A Sketch, 1959
2. Magic 8 Ball, 1950
3. Mr. Potato Head, 1952
4. PEZ Dispenser, 1950
5. Matchbox Car, 1953
6. Play-Doh, 1955
7. Barbie, 1959
8. Slip ’N Slide, 1961
9. Easy-Bake Oven, 1963
10. G.I. Joe, 1964
11. Hot Wheels, 1968
12. Barbie’s Dream House, 1968
13. Rubik’s Cube, 1974
14. Star Wars Action Figure, 1977
15. Simon, 1978
16. My little Pony, 1982
17. Cabbage Patch Kids, 1983
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18. Care Bear, 1984
19. Polly Pocket, 1989
20. Beanie Baby, 1993
Did you ever have any of these iconic toys? Let us know in the comments!
— Peter Amirata
