Stores Expect Unexpected Toy Hardships

Consumers are having a hard time finding toys this year, reports the “Wall Street Journal.” But its not related to the toys one would expect. Shoppers should consider themselves lucky to score a Barbie VW or a certain Lego game.

Unlike many a year past (recalling Furby or Tickle Me Elmo) there is no “must have” item this year. While Sony's PlayStation 2 is greatly desired, consumers who didn't get on waiting lists several months ago know there are none to be had, and are resigned to that fact.

According to “Journal,” with PlayStation 2 being an impossible dream and in absence of this year's Cabbage Patch Doll, “all that pent-up consumer demand has spilled over to second-tier toys.”For example, Zany Brainy doesn't expect to meet all demand for a $50 Lego Championship Challenge soccer game. “I just wish we had bought more of it,” lamented the ceo.

Electronic Toys are in short supply this year too — due to shipment delays caused by an Asian chip shortage. Reportedly, Mattel Inc. and Hasbro expect tech shipment shortfalls totaling $100 million.