Even although the Zhu Zhu hamsters were only launched in August 2009, they have very quickly become a roaring success. Kids up and down the country are going nuts for these cute and furry robot hamsters which use artificial intelligence to interact with the kids, their surroundings and even other Zhu Zhu pets.
As well as the fact that the hamsters are furry and cute, children really seem to adore the interactive nature of this toy. The gang of five Zhu Zhu hamsters – Pipsqueak, Chunk, Mr. Squiggles, Patches and Num Nums – have a collection of forty different sounds which they use when given the appropriate external stimulus. If, for instance, they enter their hamster bedroom, they start to snore. If they go into the bathroom in their hamster fun house then they make toothbrushing noises – etc.
Unfortunately for consumers, many retailers decided to work with relatively low stock levels this year. It’s a decision which is based partly on the fact that last year’s stock levels were too high – many retailers had to drop prices considerably to clear their shelves – and partly due to the current economic outlook.
It’s easy to see how the decision was arrived at – but based on the sales figures to date, the retailers may have got it wrong. Popular toys like the Mattel’s Mindflex game and the Zhu Zhu pets are being snapped up quickly. Demand is way higher than supply and it’s becoming very hard to find these toys in the shops. The situation is only going to get worse as we approach Christmas.
Having realised their mistake, a lot of retailers are now frantically trying to arrange for new stock. However, the vast majority of toys are made in China these days. That means that delivery usually includes a sea journey of around a month or so. Arranging for new stocks in time for Christmas may be impossible in some cases.
As a consequence of the imbalance between supply and demand, it is now possible to find Zhu Zhu hamsters on eBay for over $ 150. That’s much higher than the recommended retail price – and these prices could go higher still in the run up to Christmas. It’s a high price to pay for a children’s toy which may well be the latest craze, but is likely to become old news in just a few months.
You might be well advised to think about giving a more traditional toy this year – especially if value for money is important to you. Classics such as Scrabble, Monopoly, Lego and Hornby Dublo train sets are long term favorites for good reason. They always make a welcome addition to any youngster’s toy collection and will still be in use and being enjoyed for years to come.
Find out if the Zhu Zhu Pets are still available – or check out the most traditional gift of all – a Hornby Dublo train set.
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