Arizona toy retailers are gearing up for a busy holiday shopping season, thanks to proactive inventory strategies designed to mitigate potential price hikes from tariffs. Shop owners began stocking their shelves as early as June, anticipating a surge in demand as consumers shift their focus towards supporting local businesses.
According to the National Retail Federation, holiday spending is projected to rise between 3.7% and 4.2% compared to last year. This forecast has prompted local retailers to take decisive actions to ensure they can meet customer needs without passing on increased costs.
Kristin Roehmer, owner of Kidstop Toys and Books, emphasized the importance of early planning: “We started loading up our warehouses to avoid any price differences for our customers. We bought and loaded in June, July, and August.” Her store’s approach reflects a broader industry trend aimed at maintaining affordability for shoppers amidst uncertainty surrounding tariffs.
Other local retailers, like Jenn Mawcinitt of Wildlings Toy Boutique, faced similar challenges when it came to inventory management. To secure popular items, such as train sets, Mawcinitt collaborated with fellow local business owners to find additional storage solutions. “We had to plan far ahead,” she stated. “We were really lucky. Another small business in the area gave us some storage space because that’s always been one of our concerns.”
Despite the growing dominance of e-commerce, local shoppers are expressing a strong preference for in-person shopping experiences. Many consumers, like Andie Mercer, are prioritizing support for the local economy. Mercer visited Kidstop in search of a Jellycat plush toy for her daughter and appreciated the community atmosphere of shopping locally. “I’ve been doing a lot of Amazon, so it’s nice to be out in public and do the thing,” she noted.
Another shopper, identified only as Marsha, echoed this sentiment, stating that choosing to buy local felt like a “no-brainer” for her. With the holiday season in full swing, local boutiques are anticipating a peak in foot traffic as the last-minute shopping rush approaches. Many are preparing for an influx of customers in the days leading up to Christmas, as shipping deadlines for online orders draw near.
The combination of strategic planning, collaboration among local businesses, and a community-focused shopping ethos positions Arizona’s toy retailers for a successful holiday season. As they navigate the complexities of supply chain challenges and economic uncertainties, these stores remain committed to providing valuable options for their customers.
