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Working for one of the world's largest retailers, I can most definitely say "Yes, the toy recall has affected the Christmas shopping season." But it hasn't been a negative affect! The customers are turning to different toys, the more traditional toys. Doll sales are up. Board games sales are up. Some people are turning to electronic toys such as the "Leapfrog" learning computer for the younger set, the more traditional "Hot Wheels" cars, and even some remote controlled/radio controlled devices. Some of the radio controlled stuff had a recall, but most of the problems are corrected and the product is back on the shelves. Just coming out of the receiving department to the main store, you can see for yourself that the customers are still out in full force.

Some popular items include bi-lingual toys (Speaking toys), such as things with "Dora" on them, or "Diego." The toys speak Spanish and English. Apparently, those toys were made in Mexico. Why would American-made toys be bi-lingual?

The younger set is seeing an increase in coloring books, too. There has been a rise in sporting goods sales. Telescopes are hot merchandise right now. Even books are seeing an increase.

While the recalls are affecting some toy distributors' bottom line with the costs of the recall, the sales are still up.

So, depending on when and where you are shopping- the bottom line of the smaller specialty toy stores might be down. But check out the big stores, the discount stores. You'll see for yourself.

As a side note: My employer's bottom line was spectacular in November. A one day sale brought in nearly half a million in sales in our store alone.

So, in conclusion: Yes, the toy recall has affected shopping somewhat. But if you are looking for gloom and doom in my employer's market, you are barking up the wrong tree.

Learn more about this author, C. Buckett.
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