Irish toy chain Smyths has urged people to get a head-start on their Christmas shopping “to avoid disappointment” down the line.
The cost of some products is set to increase in the coming months, the chain confirmed.
Smyths Toys Superstore is calling on parents to make a start on their Christmas shopping in case of stock issues closer to the big day.
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While many were displeased to see the likes of Arnotts or Dunnes Stores displaying their Christmas stock already, it might be no harm to get used to the ‘C’ word.
Smyths is expecting to have enough stock for the Christmas period, but they say it is too early to predict what the demand will be like for each product.
A spokesperson for Smyths told the Irish Mirror : “We expect to be in good stock for the entire Christmas season but it’s difficult to assess the demand for every individual toy."
Because of this, they recommend making a start to the Christmas shopping sooner rather than later, in case any items sell out.
“For that reason, It is always a good idea to avoid disappointment and shop early,” the spokesperson said.
It comes as the price of children’s toys is expected to go up, just like many other goods amid the rising cost of living.
One mother called into Liveline last week after she noticed a price increase on many of the items in this year’s Smyths catalogue.
Jenna McCormack told RTE host Joe Duffy that the Barbie Day to Night Dreamhouse cost €249.99 in the shop, but €324.99 in the catalogue. This seemingly indicated a 30% increase would be added to the item nearer to Christmas.
A shocked Duffy said: “Given the pressure that people are under, if there is anyone in your house writing to get the Barbie Day to Night Dreamhouse, today is the day to get it."
Many other toys in the catalogue had similar increases. McCormack also pointed out that others had increased from last year too.
Smyths confirmed to RTE that the prices are set to increase in the "next few weeks".
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