Wroxham toy store reports increased demand

A toy store in North Norfolk has tripled its sales compared to the same period two years ago as locals start their Christmas shopping earlier than usual.

Roys of Wroxham, which has department stores in Norfolk and Suffolk, reported increased demand for their toy store in Hoveton.

Paul Roy, director of purchasing and marketing for the company, said: “It is very clear that our customers are taking advantage of the current good stock levels that we have in the stores to buy earlier for Christmas.

“Our toy store … more than tripled its sales last week compared to the same week in 2019, and that was before our supplier-sponsored promotions started this week.”

Mr Roy said that in his 30 years in the industry he had “never seen such dramatic changes in demand caused by the continuing impact of the pandemic.”

“It also looks like there are additional visitors to the Broads, extending the season more than usual at Wroxham,” he added.

Tom and Kerry Unwin run Eden in Stalham High Street.
– Credit: Archant

Somewhere else, Kerry Unwin, who runs the Eden gift shop in Stalham, reported similarly dynamic business.

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She said: “We certainly noticed this year that people were shopping a lot earlier.

“I think people want things produced in the UK now. I think they’ve changed their ways.

“People buy early and give early. If they see something they like, they buy it instead of waiting.”

She also said the store “was struggling to get hold of stocks”, including Welsh blankets ordered since August.

“Speaking to other companies, they’ve had the same issues,” she said.

Jane (left) and Charlotte Stubbs from the Creativity gift shop in Sheringham.
– Credit: Archant

Charlotte Stubbs, co-owner of Creativity, a gift shop in Sheringham, said: “I have noticed that a lot of customers say they have started their Christmas shopping and we always congratulate them on their organization.

“I think people are aware that there could be some supply issues as we approach December, with all that is reported in the news.”

Ms Stubbs said the store had “some problems” with delays on a few Christmas items.

“But most companies are honest about delays and go out of their way to get the goods to us as quickly as possible,” she said.