Toy retailers set up for holiday sprint

NEW YORK, Sept. 15 (UPI) -- Industry market analysts said large U.S. toy retailers are gearing up aggressively for the upcoming holiday shopping season, as the recession continues.

Toys R Us is expected to open 80 temporary stores for the holiday season, The Washington Post reported Tuesday.

In addition, while expanding 200 established stores with a new line called R Markets, Toys R Us will open 260 smaller stores inside Babies R Us outlets this year.

"We're energized," Toys R Us Chief Executive Officer Jerry Storch said.

Industry analyst Anita Frazier at NPD Group said, "I think every lever that can be pulled will be pulled."

Sean McGowan, a market analyst with Needham & Co. said Toys R Us "seem to be steamrolling."

Meanwhile, discount retail giant Wal-Mart recently opened "family night center," featuring $10 to $18 DVDs and $8 board games, the Post said.

"We will definitely be ready ... with incredible values across toys from core basics to hot new items," said Laura Phillips, Wal-Mart's chief toy officer and senior vice president of entertainment.

Sears added toy departments to 20 of its stores in August. "It's part of a bigger effort. Really, this is our first step," Sears spokesman Tom Aiello said.