Although the Zhu Zhu pets were only released in August of this year, they have become a runaway success already. Children nationwide have gone crazy for the cute little motorized hamsters that incorporate artificial intelligence which lets them interact with their environment, the other Zhu Zhu hamsters and the kids who are playing with them.
Over and above the fact that these robotic hamsters are small, furry and cute, children really love the interactivity. The five hamsters - Mr. Squiggles, Chunk, Pipsqueak, Patches and Num Nums - have a total of forty different sounds which they emit when given the right cue. For instance, when they enter into the bathroom of their hamster habitat, they emit tooth brushing noises. When they go into their little hamster bedroom then they produce snoring noises.
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 perfectly understandable that this decision was made - but looking at sales figures thus far, it does look as if the retailers may have misjudged the mood of consumers. Popular toys like the Zhu Zhu pets and Mattel's Mindflex game are flying off the shelves. Supply is lagging demand and it's fast becoming extremely difficult to locate these toys in stores. The closer we get to Christmas, the worse this will become.
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.
It's now possible, as a result of the huge gap between supply and demand, to find Zhu Zhu hamsters selling on eBay for more than $ 150. That's way above the normal ticket price - and prices could rise even more as Christmas draws near and parents become desperate. It's a lot of money to pay for a child's toy which, even if it is currently all the rage, will probably be yesterday's news a few months from now.
If value for money is a consideration, then you might like to consider some of the more traditional gifts this year. Children's classics such as a train set, Monopoly, Lego or Scrabble - to name but a few - have stood the test of time for good reason. They are always a great addition to any kid's toy box and will probably still be in use and being enjoyed long after this year's hot, must have toy has been forgotten. - 30224
Over and above the fact that these robotic hamsters are small, furry and cute, children really love the interactivity. The five hamsters - Mr. Squiggles, Chunk, Pipsqueak, Patches and Num Nums - have a total of forty different sounds which they emit when given the right cue. For instance, when they enter into the bathroom of their hamster habitat, they emit tooth brushing noises. When they go into their little hamster bedroom then they produce snoring noises.
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 perfectly understandable that this decision was made - but looking at sales figures thus far, it does look as if the retailers may have misjudged the mood of consumers. Popular toys like the Zhu Zhu pets and Mattel's Mindflex game are flying off the shelves. Supply is lagging demand and it's fast becoming extremely difficult to locate these toys in stores. The closer we get to Christmas, the worse this will become.
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.
It's now possible, as a result of the huge gap between supply and demand, to find Zhu Zhu hamsters selling on eBay for more than $ 150. That's way above the normal ticket price - and prices could rise even more as Christmas draws near and parents become desperate. It's a lot of money to pay for a child's toy which, even if it is currently all the rage, will probably be yesterday's news a few months from now.
If value for money is a consideration, then you might like to consider some of the more traditional gifts this year. Children's classics such as a train set, Monopoly, Lego or Scrabble - to name but a few - have stood the test of time for good reason. They are always a great addition to any kid's toy box and will probably still be in use and being enjoyed long after this year's hot, must have toy has been forgotten. - 30224
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See if the Zhu Zhu Pets are still available - or check out the most traditional gift of all - a Hornby Dublo train set.
