Generations of kids have found their most cherished playthings on the shelves of FAO Schwarz, and the retailer has served as the launch pad for many iconic toys and games throughout the years. Now, FAO Schwarz is showcasing more than 25 vintage versions of toys ranging from a 1905 Richard Steiff Teddy Bear and first edition Hot Wheels^® Cars to Hello Kitty’s first U.S. products and a 1982 hand-sewn Cabbage Patch Kid^®. Toy enthusiasts can also view “A Gallery of Historic Toys” online at FAO.com and Facebook.com/FAO.

“Founder Frederick August Otto Schwarz created his beloved store 150 years ago as a theater for the industry to showcase items in a way that would engage consumers, while introducing them to new products from all over the world,” said Lisa Harnisch, Senior Vice President, General Merchandising Manager, Toys“R”Us, U.S. “From the original baby carriage to Steiff teddy bears to the first-ever Nintendo Entertainment System, FAO Schwarz has brought thousands of unforgettable toys to market, evolving from a purveyor of extraordinary products to a must-see retail destination.”

FAO Schwarz Presents A Gallery of Historic Toys

Over the past 150 years, FAO Schwarz has grown from a simple shopping experience to a best-in-class example of retail as entertainment. Beyond scouring the globe for the most elegant and exquisite items to offer its customers, FAO Schwarz became synonymous with introducing U.S. consumers to wondrous toys, games and lifestyle products that had never been available in the country. The gallery honors this tradition by bringing together original versions of some of the most beloved toys ever to appear in the store.

For high resolution images of the items featured in “A Gallery of Historic Toys,” please visit: https://toysrus.sharefile.com/d/s000b8b7aaee4fa19.

Historic FAO Schwarz Elements on Display

FAO Schwarz Sales Ledger (1909)

Standing 20-inches high, 14-inches wide and 5-inches thick, this antique ledger was used by FAO Schwarz associates to track international purchases and sales from 1909 to 1910.

FAO Schwarz Catalogs (1928 – 2011)

To bring the wonder of the store to customers around the country, in 1876 FAO Schwarz began mailing catalogs, creating among the first mail order businesses in the U.S. Featured is a selection of catalogs from the 20^th Century.

Iconic Toys on Display (Listed Alphabetically)

64 Box (1958) from Crayola

The Crayola 64 Box, with the built-in sharpener, has become America’s iconic crayon box. The first edition, which debuted in 1958, is home to 64 brilliant colors, including burnt sienna and periwinkle.

Cabbage Patch Kids^® (1982 and 1983) from Original Appalachian Artworks

Created in 1978 by Xavier Roberts as “Little People,” Cabbage Patch Kids baby Otis Lawton is based on the only adopted son of creator Xavier Roberts. This doll is from the first adoptable, hand-sculpted edition of Original Cabbage Patch Kids, released in 1982. Also featured is the vinyl face version, represented by Delila Lorinda, which kicked off the Cabbage Patch Kid craze in 1983.

EASY-BAKE OVEN (1964) from Hasbro^®

In 1963, the EASY-BAKE OVEN was introduced to America as the first working toy oven using a light bulb to bake sweet treats. Regularly updated, the EASY-BAKE OVEN continues to inspire young pastry chefs today. On display is a vintage EASY-BAKE OVEN from 1964.

Etch A Sketch (1960) from The Ohio Arts Company

A prototype Etch A Sketch, which was originally showcased at Toy Fair in Nuremberg, Germany in 1959 is featured in the display, alongside the first edition of the classic drawing toy, which was introduced in the U.S. in 1960.

G.I. JOE action figures (1964 and 1982) from Hasbro^®

G.I. JOE is one of the most iconic brands in the history of toys and was the inspiration for the term “action figure.” Featured in the display are first edition 12-inch G.I. JOE action figures produced in 1964, as well as selections from the first wave of 3 ¾-inch G.I. JOE Real American Heroes action figures from 1982.

Hello Kitty^® (1976) from Sanrio

A phenomenon in Japan, Hello Kitty was introduced to the U.S. in 1976 with featured selections, such as a plush toy, camera, pencil box, pencils, mini coloring set, puzzle, folding mirror and comb, among other items.

Hot Wheels^® Cars from Mattel^®

In 1968, the Hot Wheels^® brand was introduced as a line of 16 die-cast vehicles in a 1:64 scale. Today, more than 4 billion Hot Wheels^® cars have been manufactured – more than the Big 3! Seven of the original Hot Wheels^® cars are on display, including custom versions of the T-Bird, Fleetside, Barracuda, Camaro, El Camino, Hot Heap^™, El Dorado and Ford J-Car.

Little People (1985) from Fisher-Price^®

The beloved Little People^® brand was introduced as the Safety School Bus in 1959 with non-detachable characters riding inside. The current Little People Bus, an updated version of the 1985 item on display, remains popular today.         

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers Megazord (1993) from Bandai America Inc.

Introduced in 1993, Saban’s Power Rangers became an instant toy phenomenon. This first edition Megazord, featuring five combinable dinosaur Zords, has become a much sought-after collectible.

MONOPOLY (1935) and BATTLESHIP (1967) from Hasbro^®

Introduced in the 1930s, the featured 1935 version of MONOPOLY was designed with wooden houses. Originally created as a pencil and pad game, the 1967 BATTLESHIP was the first to feature a playing board.

MR. POTATO HEAD (1972) from Playskool^®

MR. POTATO HEAD was introduced in 1952 and was the first toy ever advertised on network TV.  MR. POTATO HEAD received his first plastic body in 1964, and on display is a vintage version of the MR. POTATO HEAD character from 1972.

Nintendo Entertainment System^™ (NES)(1985) from Nintendo

The NES, an 8-bit video game console, first launched in the U.S. in October 1985 at FAO Schwarz. The NES went on to sell close to 62 million units worldwide, and is credited with recreating the home video game market.

Original Barbie^® Doll (#3) and Original Ken^® Doll from Mattel^®

Barbie Millicent Roberts^™ was introduced to a skeptical toy industry at the American International Toy Fair in New York City in 1959.  Also on display is Ken^® doll, first introduced at the 1961 Toy Fair as Barbie^® doll’s boyfriend.  They are still a couple today. 

PLAY-DOH FUZZY PUMPER BARBER & BEAUTY SHOP (1977) from Hasbro^®

In 1977, the PLAY-DOH FUZZY PUMPER BARBER & BEAUTY SHOP playset was introduced, featuring a play figure whose “hair” can be extruded and then styled.

PLAYMOBIL figures (1974) from PLAYMOBIL^®

In 1974, the first PLAYMOBIL figures, Construction Worker, Native American and Knight, made their debut. More than 2.5 billion figures have been sold since their creation. The original figures are presented alongside vintage packaging from 1974 and 1975.

Razor^® A Scooter (2000) from Razor USA LLC

When it was introduced in 2000, the original A model Razor^® kick scooter was a phenomenal success, drawing the attention of hip city dwellers and kids of all ages. This scooter is now deeply entrenched in American culture. Like bikes and skateboards, the Razor kick scooter transformed childhood transportation.

Richard Steiff Bear (1905) from Steiff

The 1905 Richard Steiff Teddy Bear, designed by and named after Margarete Steiff’s nephew Richard, was produced through 1951. At the time of the bear’s introduction, Richard’s rounded face, blunted snout and embroidered nose were a departure from the design of other Steiff Teddies launched in the early 1900s. Richard is 30 cm, five-way jointed and made from gray mohair. 

Silly Putty (1950) from Crayola

The first edition Silly Putty bounces, stretches and lifts up comics from newspapers. Discovered accidentally while trying to create a rubber substitute, Silly Putty is now a true classic toy. Since 1950, more than 400 million Silly Putty eggs have been sold.

Slinky^® (1950), Slinky Dog^®, Slinky^® Three Little Pigs and Slinky^® Elephant from POOF^®-Slinky^®

Created in 1945, Slinky^® was developed when Naval engineer Richard James saw a coil fall off his desk and tumble end-over-end down a stack of books. The original Slinky^® is displayed with Slinky^® Dog, Slinky^® Three Little Pigs and Slinky^® Elephant – friendly characters that added personality to Slinky^®.

“Sorry!” (1934) and Candy Land (1955) from Hasbro^®

Originally published by Parker Brothers in 1934, this first edition of “Sorry!” still features the same gameplay today. Candy Land, created in 1949, only had its trademark color spots and cards, with no characters when it was first introduced.                                                                  

Tamagotchi (1997) from Bandai America Inc.

Introduced in 1997, Tamagotchi is a tiny pet from cyberspace that needed love and care to survive and grow. Tamagotchi became a worldwide phenomenon, and it was commonplace to see children caring for these “virtual pets.”

Tickle Me Elmo (1996) from Tyco^®

An immediate hit, the first edition Tickle Me Elmo, based on the popular Sesame Street^® character, featured a contagious and boisterous laugh. It quickly became the most sought-after toy of the 1996 holiday season.

Town Plan (1955) from The LEGO Group

In 1955, the “LEGO^® System of Play” launched, allowing kids to build an entire city from LEGO^® bricks. Before the interlocking building system was developed in 1955, “LEGO^® Town Plan,” on display, launched the first “Play and Learn” LEGO concept.

Tournament Yo-Yo (1960s) from Duncan^®

Introduced in 1929, kids have spent hours mastering tricks with a Duncan Yo-Yo. Featuring a classic shape, the “Crossed Flags” Yo-Yo from the 1960s is from the last wooden Tournament Yo-Yo line.

TRANSFORMERS action figures (1984) from Hasbro^®

The TRANSFORMERS brand first rolled onto shelves in 1984 with “ROBOTS IN DISGUISE,” which included first edition AUTOBOTS on display in the gallery, such as OPTIMUS PRIME, BUMBLEBEE, GEARS and CLIFFJUMPER. 

About  FAO Schwarz

Since 1862, FAO Schwarz has been a brand synonymous with quality and innovation, offering an unparalleled selection of one-of-a-kind toys that have enchanted generations and cultivated a loyal clientele. In 2012, the brand commemorates its 150^th anniversary as one of the most cherished retailers in the country with a year-long celebration of its storied history. The famous FAO Schwarz flagship store in New York City, which attracts millions of visitors annually, is the only one of its kind in the world.  The complete assortment of the company’s extraordinary merchandise, including a line of unique toys marketed under the FAO Schwarz brand name, can be found in-store and online at FAO.com. The iconic FAO Schwarz brand is exclusively operated by Toys“R”Us, Inc., the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer.

For additional information about the brand or its 150^th anniversary, visit FAO.com and follow FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/FAO.

Media Contacts:
Toys"R"Us, Inc.
Bob Friedland
646-366-8862
friedlab@toysrus.com

“For 15 decades, FAO Schwarz has created a magical, one-of-a-kind retail environment, bringing joy to millions of kids and kids-at-heart,” said Jerry Storch, Chairman and CEO, Toys“R”Us, Inc., which exclusively operates the FAO Schwarz brand.  “As we celebrate its 150^th anniversary in 2012, we are excited to evoke nostalgic memories by highlighting the brand’s past, while continuing to elevate the FAO Schwarz experience through redesigned store features and unique new product offerings.”

Frederick August Otto Schwarz Inducted into Toy Industry Hall of Fame – The year-long celebration began this week when company founder Frederick August Otto Schwarz was inducted into the Toy Industry Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to the toy industry. The induction ceremony took place on Saturday, February 11, at the 12^th Annual Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards, hosted by the Toy Industry Association (TIA), in New York City.

“Welcome to Our World”:  A Familiar, Friendly Face Returns – Some visitors to the landmark store are likely to be nostalgic about the return of the famous face of the FAO Schwarz Clock Tower, originally displayed in the store from 1986 through 2004. It is newly positioned above the escalator leading down to the Concourse Level, where it once again plays the classic theme song, “Welcome to Our World of Toys,” which greeted guests for 18 years.

A New Look for the Store’s Toy Soldiers – The store’s renowned real-life “toy” soldiers, who have long greeted visitors at the flagship store, are dressed their best for the brand’s sesquicentennial in new bright red uniforms and whimsical bearskin hats. After receiving a warm welcome, visitors entering the magical toy emporium will experience 14-foot-tall illuminated toy soldiers with banners heralding the store’s milestone anniversary, which are positioned along the main aisle in the Grand Hall.

Bringing the Brand’s Storied History to Life Online – FAO Schwarz enthusiasts can visit FAO.com, which will be transformed into a one-stop shop for the year-long celebration with a red and gold color scheme. The site not only features classic, high-quality toys that the brand is known for, but also updated information about the brand’s history and the activities taking place at the store throughout 2012, including a new page devoted to the 150^th anniversary. FAO.com will also highlight a dedicated feature shop of 150^th anniversary products that have been created especially to mark the occasion. 

In the social space, the company’s Facebook page, Facebook.com/FAO, will undergo a similar transformation, featuring images of the famed flagship location, as well as trivia and facts culled from 150 years of FAO Schwarz history and more.

FAO Schwarz Presents: “A Gallery of Historic Toys” – Beginning next week, FAO Schwarz invites visitors to step back in time, when it officially unveils a one-of-a-kind in-store gallery filled with classic toys and brand artifacts. More than 25 of the most iconic playthings that have brought joy to children worldwide for more than a century will be showcased, including an original Crayola^® 64 Box, first edition G.I. JOE action figures and a vintage Barbie^® doll. In addition to toys, unique items from the FAO Schwarz archives will be featured, such as an FAO Schwarz sales ledger from 1909 and a selection of FAO Schwarz catalogs dating back to 1928. Additional information on “A Gallery of Historic Toys” will be available soon on FAO.com.

150^th Anniversary Commemorative Products – In conjunction with the company’s anniversary, limited edition items from Mattel^®, Hasbro^®, Playmobil^®, Steiff^®, Madame Alexander^® and other manufacturers will pay homage to the famed toy retailer. Available later this year, items will include an FAO Schwarz-themed MONOPOLY board featuring classic playthings, as well as a toy soldier Barbie^® doll and Playmobil^® figures. In addition, FAO Schwarz will release its own exclusive plush bears to mark this anniversary.

Where It All Began

In 1856, Frederick August Otto Schwarz, the youngest of three Schwarz brothers, emigrated to the U.S. from Germany, joining his brothers in Baltimore, Maryland. Six years later, the brothers opened “Toy Bazaar,” their first toy retailing business. Following the success of “Toy Bazaar,” Frederick moved to New York City where he opened “Schwarz Brothers – Importers.”  Driven by a love of toys and his vision to provide children with the most amazing products, Frederick stocked his store with exquisitely crafted playthings from Europe.

As his business flourished, Frederick moved to larger locations throughout the city and introduced his inaugural catalog for loyal clientele in 1876 – creating one of the first mail order businesses in the country. By 1900, Frederick had renamed the store “FAO Schwarz,” and many considered him to be the largest toy dealer in the world.

FAO Schwarz has hosted many notable events and product launches since its founding, from the introduction of the “perambulator” – the modern day baby carriage – at the turn of the 20^th century to the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in 1985 and Furby in 1998.

Since 1862, the dream of Frederick August Otto Schwarz to provide an assortment of one-of-a-kind toys, while creating a theatrical experience to showcase merchandise, has delighted generations of children who have visited the legendary store. Though Frederick passed away over a century ago, his legacy lives on in a beloved brand.

For information on the celebratory events taking place throughout the year, please visit the 150^th anniversary page on FAO.com.

About  FAO Schwarz

Since 1862, FAO Schwarz has been a brand synonymous with quality and innovation, offering an unparalleled selection of one-of-a-kind toys that have enchanted generations and cultivated a loyal clientele. In 2012, the brand commemorates its 150^th anniversary as one of the most cherished retailers in the country with a year-long celebration of its storied history. The famous FAO Schwarz flagship store in New York City, which attracts millions of visitors annually, is the only one of its kind in the world.  The complete assortment of the company’s extraordinary merchandise, including a line of unique toys marketed under the FAO Schwarz brand name, can be found in-store and online at FAO.com. The iconic FAO Schwarz brand is exclusively operated by Toys“R”Us, Inc., the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer.

For additional information about the brand or its 150^th anniversary, visit FAO.com and follow FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/FAO.

Media Contacts:
Toys"R"Us, Inc.
Jennifer Albano
(973) 617-5632
Jennifer.Albano@toysrus.com

Katie Reczek
(973) 617-4381
Katie.Reczek@toysrus.com

This distinguished honor for Mr. Schwarz comes as FAO Schwarz celebrates its 150^th year as a purveyor of extraordinary toys and a brand synonymous with quality and innovation. Since 1862, the dream of Frederick August Otto Schwarz to provide an assortment of one-of-a-kind toys, while creating a theatrical experience to showcase merchandise, has delighted generations of children who have visited the legendary store.

At the induction ceremony, Jerry Storch, Chairman and CEO, Toys“R”Us, Inc., which exclusively operates the FAO Schwarz brand, said, “The vision of Frederick August Otto Schwarz to establish FAO Schwarz as a magical toy emporium resulted in a shopping experience that has captivated parents and children since its inception. As a pioneer in the toy industry, he transformed the way people shopped for and thought about toys, and we are proud to build upon the incredible heritage of his namesake brand.”

The ceremony was attended by members of the extended Schwarz family, including one great-grandchild, three great-great grandchildren and one great-great-great grandchild.

Eric Schwarz, great-great grandson of Frederick August Otto Schwarz, stated, “My great-great grandfather created a world of magic and wonder that has transcended generations of children and lives on today at the FAO Schwarz flagship store in New York City. Our entire family shares in this honor and we take great pride that the Toy Industry Association has recognized his life’s work of bringing joy to children.”

In 1856, Frederick, the youngest of three Schwarz brothers, emigrated to the U.S. from Germany, joining his brothers in Baltimore, Maryland. Six years later the brothers opened “Toy Bazaar,” their first toy retailing business. Following the success of “Toy Bazaar,” Frederick moved to New York City where he opened “Schwarz Brothers – Importers,” while his brothers operated separate toy stores in Baltimore and Boston. Driven by a love of toys and his vision to provide children with the most amazing products, Frederick stocked his store with exquisitely crafted playthings from Europe. Under Frederick’s leadership, the business grew rapidly and became the destination for unique, high-quality toys.

Frederick opened a second New York City location in 1876 to meet increased demand and also issued his inaugural catalog for loyal clientele, creating one of the first mail order businesses in the country. Over the next 30 years, the store moved to larger, more prominent locations throughout New York City several times. By 1900, Frederick had renamed the store “FAO Schwarz,” and many considered him to be the largest toy dealer in the world.

After captivating children and adults alike for 50 years, Frederick August Otto Schwarz passed away in 1911, but his legacy lives on in his beloved brand and in the indelible mark he made on the toy industry.  

Today, FAO Schwarz is not only the oldest toy store in the United States, but one of the oldest retail establishments of any kind. It has evolved from a toy store to a must-see tourist destination, and continues to be well-known for high-quality merchandise and timeless treasures. Throughout its 150 years, FAO Schwarz has carried on the tradition of serving as a stage to introduce new and exciting products to consumers.

A pop culture icon for generations, Frederick’s namesake store draws thousands of visitors each year who come to witness the magic and wonder of FAO Schwarz. Through the ages, it has been the subject of classic depictions of kids and kids-at-heart, including a 1930’s cartoon in The New Yorker and starring roles in countless major motion pictures – perhaps none more renowned than “BIG” in 1988, in which actors Tom Hanks and Robert Loggia dance on the store’s giant piano. 

The Toy Industry Hall of Fame was established in 1984 and has inducted 61 individuals, to date, who have significantly impacted and influenced the toy industry. Mr. Schwarz was nominated for this esteemed honor from within the toy industry and selected by a vote of Toy Industry Association members and previous Hall of Fame honorees. Inductees to the Hall of Fame must demonstrate significant experience in the toy industry, have led innovative product introductions and have a prominent role in encouraging the appreciation of toys in lives of children, among other qualifications.

About FAO Schwarz

Since 1862, FAO Schwarz has been a brand synonymous with quality and innovation, offering an unparalleled selection of one-of-a-kind toys that have enchanted generations and cultivated a loyal clientele. In 2012, the brand commemorates its 150^th anniversary as one of the most cherished retailers in the country with a year-long celebration of its storied history. The famous FAO Schwarz flagship store in New York City, which attracts millions of visitors annually, is the only one of its kind in the world.  The complete assortment of the company’s extraordinary merchandise, including a line of unique toys marketed under the FAO Schwarz brand name, can be found in-store and online at FAO.com. The iconic FAO Schwarz brand is exclusively operated by Toys“R”Us, Inc., the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer.

For additional information about the brand or its 150^th anniversary, visit FAO.com and follow FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/FAO.

Media Contacts:
Toys"R"Us, Inc.
Jennifer Albano
(973) 617-5632
Jennifer.Albano@toysrus.com

Meghan Kennedy
(973) 617-4807
Meghan.Kennedy@toysrus.com

Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure was released by Activision last fall, featuring more than 30 different characters that come to life within a video game world. Players take on the role of a “Portal Master,” placing action figures on a device called the “Portal of Power®” to transport them into the Skylands.

“Gamers have been enthralled with bringing their action figures to life with Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure, and now, months after its launch, they are still clamoring to find every Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure character to add to their collection,” said Troy Peterson, Divisional Merchandise Manager, Electronics and Entertainment, Toys“R”Us, U.S. “To ensure that ‘Portal Masters’ have access to the most unique characters and worlds within the Skylands, Toys“R”Us will continue to introduce exclusive items from this exciting virtual world throughout the year.” 

Upcoming, new Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure action figures and playsets that will be introduced exclusively at Toys“R”Us stores nationwide and online at Toysrus.com include:

Legendary Trigger Happy

Along with the same abilities as the original Trigger Happy, this Legendary version of the fan-favorite “goldslinger” features more power. Able to discharge a barrage of gold coins at his enemies using his dual blasters, Trigger Happy can also hurl pots of gold and golden safes, and gain a variety of other power upgrades. Legendary Trigger Happy will be available at Toys“R”Us stores around the world beginning in March.

Dragon’s Peak Adventure Pack

Featuring a new Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure character, Sunburn, this Adventure Pack offers players access to a brand new area of the Skylands – Dragon’s Peak. Additionally, new included magic items, Sparx Dragonfly and Winged Boots, offer new ways to help characters on their quests through Skylands. The Dragon’s Peak Adventure Pack will be introduced exclusively for a limited time at Toys“R”Us in March.

Translucent Blue Bash

This brand new version of Bash, the dragon who can curl into a powerful rolling ball, features a translucent blue deco that was selected by fans of Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure. Bash uses his spiky tail to slam and strike his opponents away using a 360 degree tailspin. He can also summon rocks from the ground to scramble his enemies and possesses additional powers, as well. Translucent Blue Bash will be available exclusively for a limited time at Toys“R”Us locations across North America beginning Sunday, April 8.

And, back by popular demand, the following item will return to Toys“R”Us stores and online at Toysrus.com later this month:

Legendary 3-Pack

This trio of fan-favorite characters features Spyro, Bash and Chop Chop in their Legendary forms. Highlighted by gold and dark blue deco, each Legendary character is more powerful than the traditional version. The Legendary 3-pack will return to Toys“R”Us stores nationwide for a limited time beginning February 17.

About Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 879 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in more than 600 international stores and over 150 licensed stores in 35 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com and FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates annually worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Additional information about Toys“R”Us, Inc. can be found on Toysrusinc.com. Follow Toys“R”Us, Babies“R”Us and FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/Toysrus, Facebook.com/Babiesrus and Facebook.com/FAO and on Twitter at Twitter.com/Toysrus and Twitter.com/Babiesrus.

Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure is a trademark, and Spyro, Portal of Power, and Activision are registered trademarks of Activision Publishing, Inc.  All rights reserved.  All other trademarks and trade names are the properties of their respective owners.

Media Contact:
Toys“R”Us, Inc.
Bob Friedland
Toys"R"Us
646-366-8862
friedlab@toysrus.com

In 2011, Kids In Danger conducted an analysis of product safety issues reported at SaferProducts.gov, an online database where consumers can share concerns about product safety with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The analysis found that one in seven of the reports and injuries included in the database regarding children or children’s products involved products that had been recalled, with most of the incidents occurring after the item was recalled.

“The ‘Great Trade-In’ event was conceived to raise awareness of the dangers surrounding used and second-hand products that are still in circulation, and we’re proud of the impact the program has made since its inception,” said Jerry Storch, Chairman and CEO, Toys“R”Us, Inc. “Toys“R”Us is committed to ensuring the safety of children, and we continue to stay at the forefront of emerging safety concerns, while offering parents and caregivers the safest products available.”

Since the first “Great Trade-In” event, approximately 600,000 used and potentially unsafe baby products have been removed from circulation and turned in at “R”Us^® stores nationwide. Some traded-in items were missing parts or were damaged, while others that were decades old showed obvious signs of wear and tear and would be considered non-compliant by today’s more stringent product safety standards. 

The company’s sixth “Great Trade-In” event begins Friday, January 27 and continues through Monday, February 20 in Babies“R”Us^® and Toys“R”Us^® locations nationwide.  During this time, stores will accept any used cribs, car seats, bassinets, strollers, travel systems, play yards, high chairs, kids’ beds, swings, walkers, bouncers and entertainers in exchange for a 25% savings on the purchase of a new baby item, in any of these product categories, from select manufacturers.  Through this program, Toys“R”Us, Inc. continues to raise awareness among parents about ways to be proactive where children’s safety is concerned. 

The CPSC advocates not purchasing used items that have a history of safety problems, including cribs, play yards and bassinets.  Items in these specific categories may have been recalled or affected by recent enhancements to federal or voluntary standards and regulations for safety testing that render older models unsafe or non-compliant with current standards. 

Brands participating in the “Great Trade-In” event include Babi Italia^®, Babies“R”Us, Baby Cache^®, Baby Einstein^™, Baby Trend^®, Bergamo^®, Bright Starts^™, Britax^®, Carter’s^®, Chicco^®, Combi^®, Contours by Kolcraft^®, Delta^™, Europa Baby^®, Evenflo^®, Graco^®, Jeep^®, Lamaze^®, Little Tikes^®, Maxi-Cosi^®, Safety 1^st®, S1 by Safety 1^st®, Signature Series by Graco^®, Sorelle^™, Step2^® and Summer Infant^®.  Customers can save 25% on a new purchase, within any of the specified product categories, from any of the aforementioned manufacturers, in Babies“R”Us and Toys“R”Us stores nationwide on the day they trade in their used item. 

Customers may exchange any number of used items, from any manufacturer, in the specified product categories.  Day care centers or other organizations who wish to exchange items in bulk are encouraged to contact their local Babies“R”Us or Toys“R”Us store prior to returning their used items to ensure adequate availability of new merchandise.

Additional Safety Resources for Parents and Caregivers

In addition to the “Great Trade-In” event, Toys“R”Us, Inc. offers the following resources to help parents and caregivers keep their children safe:

• Toysrus.com/Safety, the company’s dedicated Safety website, features information on the company’s industry-leading safety standards for products sold through its stores and websites, seasonal tips for preventing accidental injury and product recall information.
• Recall notifications sent via e-mail by signing up through Toysrus.com/Safety, which approximately 280,000 customers have done since the feature was made available.
• Current recall information is posted on easily-visible Safety boards at each store location.
• Tools and resources for parents to keep track of the products in use in their homes with a Product Record List and Eight Steps to Keep Kids Safe checklist is available online at Toysrus.com/Safety and in-stores upon request. These tools are designed to make relevant product information readily available in the event of a recall so parents and caregivers can act quickly to remove unsafe products from use.

About Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 879 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in more than 600 international stores and over 150 licensed stores in 35 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com and FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates annually worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Additional information about Toys“R”Us, Inc. can be found on Toysrusinc.com. Follow Toys“R”Us, Babies“R”Us and FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/Toysrus, Facebook.com/Babiesrus and Facebook.com/FAO and on Twitter at Twitter.com/Toysrus and Twitter.com/Babiesrus.

Media Contacts:
Toys"R"Us, Inc.
Jennifer Albano
(973) 617-5632
Jennifer.Albano@toysrus.com

Katie Reczek
(973) 617-4381
Katie.Reczek@toysrus.com

Mr. Urcelay said, “Roger is a seasoned retail executive who brings 25 years of experience to his new role in leading our Toys“R”Us, U.K. operations. I look forward to working with Roger as we continue to grow and develop the company’s business throughout the U.K.”

Mr. McLaughlan stated, “Toys“R”Us is truly one of the most iconic retail brands in the world, and I am delighted to join the U.K. team. Together, we will work to leverage the company’s toy and juvenile products authority position to provide our customers with a differentiated shopping experience.”

Mr. McLaughlan joins Toys“R”Us, U.K. from ASDA, Great Britain’s second largest supermarket chain, and a subsidiary of Walmart, where he worked for three years. Most recently, he served as Managing Director, ASDA Living, the company’s general merchandise store group. His career at ASDA also included a key role as Retail and Marketing Director for George, the company’s proprietary clothing line, overseeing all retail and marketing activity for that business. Prior to joining ASDA, Mr. McLaughlan was Chief Executive Officer for Floors-2-Go, the largest flooring specialist in the U.K. 

Earlier in his career, Mr. McLaughlan held various positions throughout the retail industry, including executive roles at Woolworth’s South Africa, Marks and Spencer and Stylo Group.

About Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 870 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in more than 600 international stores and over 140 licensed stores in 35 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com and FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates annually worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Additional information about Toys“R”Us, Inc. can be found on Toysrusinc.com. Follow Toys“R”Us, Babies“R”Us and FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/Toysrus, Facebook.com/Babiesrus and Facebook.com/FAO and on Twitter at Twitter.com/Toysrus and Twitter.com/Babiesrus.

Media Contacts:
Toys"R"Us, Inc.
Kathleen Waugh
973-617-5888/646-366-8823
waughk@toysrus.com

Katie Reczek
973-617-4381
Katie.Reczek@toysrus.com

To jump-start this year’s campaign, the Toys“R”Us Children’s Fund, a public charity affiliated with Toys“R”Us, Inc., provided a $250,000 grant to the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. Also, to further demonstrate the company’s commitment to spreading holiday cheer to some of America’s neediest children, Toys“R”Us donated more than $250,000 worth of toys to Toys for Tots.

“At Toys“R”Us, it’s our mission to help kids in times of need, and with more than 16 million children now living in poverty in the United States, raising money and collecting toys was more important than ever before in helping to put smiles on the faces of less fortunate children during this holiday season," said Jerry Storch, Chairman and CEO, Toys“R”Us, Inc. “We are incredibly proud that this year’s Toys“R”Us Toys for Tots campaign was the most successful in company history due in large part to the overwhelming support of our customers and our employees across the country. This collective commitment to helping children in need ensured millions of kids – who otherwise might have gone without – had a toy to open on Christmas morning.”

For a third consecutive year, NBA legend, philanthropist and entrepreneur Shaquille O’Neal readied himself as his holiday alter-ego, Shaq-A-Claus, to build on his decades-long history of spreading Christmas cheer. Shaq-A-Claus encouraged Toys“R”Us customers, as well as fans, to give back to children in need.

“It’s very important to me that every child experience the magic of receiving a present under the Christmas tree, and that’s why I decided Toys“R”Us needed a Shaq-sized hand to help raise donations for Toys for Tots,” said Shaquille O’Neal. “I am truly grateful to everyone who joined me in giving back this holiday season – a Shaq-tastic job by all!”

To broaden this campaign’s digital reach, the company teamed up with LivingSocial to spread awareness and encourage monetary donations. LivingSocial U.S. members were asked to contribute $5 to Toys for Tots, with each individual donation then matched by Toys“R”Us with $5 worth of toys, up to $250,000. Also, Shaq-A-Claus made an appearance on the company’s official Facebook fan pages, Facebook.com/Toysrus and Facebook.com/Babiesrus, where he challenged his fans to join him in making a difference.

As the largest retail partner in the history of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, Toys“R”Us has raised over $27.6 million and collected more than 3.4 million toys since the partnership began in 2004.

About Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 870 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in more than 600 international stores and over 150 licensed stores in 35 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com and FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates annually worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Additional information about Toys“R”Us, Inc. can be found on Toysrusinc.com. Follow Toys“R”Us, Babies“R”Us and FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/Toysrus, Facebook.com/Babiesrus and Facebook.com/FAO and on Twitter at Twitter.com/Toysrus and Twitter.com/Babiesrus.

Media Contacts:
Toys"R"Us, Inc.
Kerry Smith
973-617-4380/646-366-8825
Kerry.Smith@toysrus.com

Adrienne O'Hara
973-617-4383/646-366-8863
Adrienne.Ohara@toysrus.com

For the month of December, the U.S. Domestic segment reported a comparable store sales increase of 1.2%.  The Learning, Core Toy and Seasonal categories generated the strongest comparable store net sales growth.  The Entertainment category, which includes electronics, videogame hardware and software, was the weakest.

“We have now delivered six consecutive years of positive comparable store sales growth in the U.S. during the month of December,” said Jerry Storch, Chairman and CEO, Toys“R”Us, Inc.  “Our results, which build on our prior years of growth during this important period for our business, speak to the resiliency of our brand and the strength of our unique and differentiated product assortment.  The investments we made this year in strengthening our omnichannel capabilities were clearly a big win with the customer, who took advantage of the seamless shopping experience created between our online and brick and mortar stores as they chose to shop at Toys“R”Us for their holiday gifts.”

During the month of December, total sales for the Domestic segment decreased by 1.2%, attributable to the company’s decision to open significantly fewer Toys“R”Us Express pop-up stores during the 2011 holiday selling season, compared to the prior year.

International total sales increased by 5.1% in December, reflecting benefits from the company’s recent acquisition of the majority stake in its businesses in Southeast Asia and Greater China, as well as foreign currency translation.  Comparable store sales for the month in the International segment declined by 1.4%. 

With these December results, quarter-to-date comparable store sales in the U.S. decreased 1.3% versus last year, while the International segment decreased 3.0%.  Quarter-to-date total sales in the U.S. decreased by 3.6%, primarily due to the company’s decision to open significantly fewer Toys“R”Us Express pop-up stores during the 2011 holiday selling season, compared to the prior year.  Total quarter-to-date sales increased 3.2% in the International segment, reflecting benefits from the company’s recent acquisition of the majority stake in its businesses in Southeast Asia and Greater China, as well as foreign currency translation.

(The month of December refers to the five-week period from November 27, 2011 to December 31, 2011, as compared to the five-week period from November 28, 2010 to January 1, 2011.  Quarter-to-date refers to the nine-week period from October 30, 2011 to December 31, 2011, as compared to the nine-week period from October 31, 2010 to January 1, 2011.)

About Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 875 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in more than 600 international stores and over 150 licensed stores in 35 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com and FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates annually worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Additional information about Toys“R”Us, Inc. can be found on Toysrusinc.com. Follow Toys“R”Us, Babies“R”Us and FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/Toysrus, Facebook.com/Babiesrus and Facebook.com/FAO and on Twitter at Twitter.com/Toysrus and Twitter.com/Babiesrus.

For more information please contact:

Bruce Bishop, Vice President, Investor Relations at 973-617-5160 or Bruce.Bishop@toysrus.com

Kathleen Waugh, Vice President, Corporate Communications at 973-617-5888, 646-366-8823 or waughk@toysrus.com

“As last-minute shoppers fill our stores while on the hunt for must-have toys, they know they have the best chance of finding the hot toys in-stock through Christmas at Toys“R”Us,” said Greg Ahearn, Chief Marketing Officer, Toys“R”Us, U.S. “Plus, we’ve planned additional incredible values for shoppers visiting our stores on December 23 and 24 with buy one, get one 50%off deals, free gifts with purchase and significant discounts.”

THE Toy Authority Continues to Stock Hot Toys

From Cody Simpson and Lalaloopsy Littles to Xia-Xia Hermit Crabs, My Keepon and Air Swimmers eXtreme, Toys“R”Us continues to stock its store shelves with hot toys. Last-minute holiday shoppers still have the best chance of finding the must-have toys at Toys“R”Us. And, even after Santa returns to the North Pole, Toys“R”Us will remain the go-to destination for parents and kids looking for their favorite playthings well into the New Year.

Super Savings for the Final Round of Last-Minute Holiday Shoppers

As bargain hunters with only a few shopping hours left rush to find the perfect, last-minute gifts, Toys“R”Us is offering super savings on Friday, December 23 and Saturday, December 24. Shoppers can take advantage of fantastic values on plush toys, bikes, construction sets, video games and outdoor items, among others.

Below are highlights of the deals and discounts valid atToys“R”Us stores all day Friday, December 23 and Saturday, December 24 until 10pm, while supplies last:

• BUY ONE GET ONE 50% OFF ALL LEGO^® Construction Sets and Games (Excludes Star Wars^™ and video games) – Prices vary^**
• BUY ONE GET ONE 50% OFF ALL Imaginarium^® Arts & Crafts – Prices vary^**
• BUY ONE GET ONE 50% OFF ALL Moshi Monsters^™ (Excludes video games) – Prices vary^**
• BUY ONE GET ONE 50% OFF ALL Crayola^® items^**
• FREE (Select) Kinect^™ Game with the purchase of XBOX 360^® KinectSensor – up to a $49 value
• FREE Cars 2 Color Changers Color Splash Speedway with any Cars 2 purchase totaling $75 or more - $39.99 value
• 50% OFF ALL Imaginarium Train Engines, Sets and Accessories – Prices vary
•  50% OFF FurReal Friends^® Lulu My Cuddlin Kitty^™ and Cookie My Playful Pup^™ – Was $39.99 and $59.99; Now $19.99 and $29.99
• 40% OFF Select Games (Scrabble Flash, Scrabble Slam, Simon Flash) – Prices vary
• 40% OFF Fisher-Price Topzy Tumblers Twirlin’ Tumblin’ Fun Park – Was $38; Now $26.99
• 20% OFF Barbie^® Malibu Dreamhouse – Was: $129.99; Now: $103.99
• SAVE $50 on COBY^® 10” Portable DVD Player –Was $149.99; Now $99.99
• SAVE $40 on FAST LANE^® JLX Matrix Radio Control Motorcycle – Was $99.99; Now $59.99
• Save $20 on NERF N-Strike^™ Stampede^™ECS – Was: $55; Now: $34.99
• Save $20 on ALL Avigo^® Bikes Priced $74.99

Hassle-Free Returns at The World’s Greatest Toy Store^™

Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us^®stores nationwide, as well as Toysrus.com, will gladly accept returns made within 90 days of the purchase date for most items when accompanied by a customer’s original in-store receipt, gift receipt or online packing slip. Additionally, returns of video games, accessories and systems; computer software; VHS cassettes; DVDs; music; electronics; radio-control items; trading cards; collectibles; consumer electronics; monitors and breast pumps will be accepted within 45 days from the date of purchase. The company’s full return policy, including information about how money is refunded, can be found through a link – marked “Returns” – at the bottom of the Toysrus.com homepage.

During the two weeks following Christmas, Toys“R”Us, Inc. will accept returns of items purchased outside of the usual 90 day window. All other return requirements apply.

As an added convenience for customers without receipts and who also take part in the company’s complimentary loyalty program, Rewards“R”Us^®, Toys“R”Us employees can look up past purchases simply by rescanning the shopper’s Rewards“R”Us card. All members have to do is remember to scan their card each and every time they shop at Toys“R”Us or Babies“R”Us stores. Full details on the Rewards“R”Us loyalty program can be found at Toysrus.com/rewards.

Additionally, over the course of this holiday shopping season, millions of customers have taken advantage of the company’s Rewards“R”Us loyalty program, which allows them to earn up to 10 percent back in “R”Us Dollars on purchases made at any “R”Us store nationwide or online at Toysrus.com or Babiesrus.com through Christmas Eve.^* Customers who have accrued earnings between October 30, 2011 and December 24, 2011 will receive their Rewards certificates via email between December 26 and the end of January, with varying valid dates.  

About Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 872 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in more than 600 international stores and over 140 licensed stores in 35 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com and FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates annually worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Additional information about Toys“R”Us, Inc. can be found on Toysrusinc.com. Follow Toys“R”Us, Babies“R”Us and FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/Toysrus, Facebook.com/Babiesrus and Facebook.com/FAO and on Twitter at Twitter.com/Toysrus and Twitter.com/Babiesrus.

^*Valid dates may vary on reward certificates. Customers who spend $500 or more will earn the maximum reward of $50 in “R”Us Dollars. Qualifying purchases exclude gift cards, shipping and handling charges and reward-eligible greeting cards, formula and diapers. Reward certificates cannot be used to purchase or cover the cost of diapers, formula, gift cards, photo studios, video game hardware, video games, video game accessories, Apple products, Motherhood Maternity, Buyer Protection Plan, assembly fee, breast-pump rental fee, delivery fee, and shipping and handling.
^**Free/Discounted item must be of equal or lesser value to the lowest priced item purchased.

Media Contacts:
Toys“R”Us, Inc.
Adrienne O'Hara
(973) 617-4383
Adrienne.Ohara@toysrus.com

Bob Friedland 
(646) 366-8862
Bob.Friedland@toysrus.com

Term loan lenders are instructed to consult SyndTrak for dial-in information for this call.  Investors and prospective investors in the notes set forth above are invited to call the following number to obtain dial-in information: 1-800-585-8367or 404-537-3406, conference ID #35152055.

About Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 872 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in more than 600 international stores and over 140 licensed stores in 35 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com and FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates annually worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Additional information about Toys“R”Us, Inc. can be found on Toysrusinc.com. Follow Toys“R”Us, Babies“R”Us and FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/Toysrus, Facebook.com/Babiesrus and Facebook.com/FAO and on Twitter at Twitter.com/Toysrus and Twitter.com/Babiesrus.

Media Contact:
Toys"R"Us, Inc.
Kathleen Waugh
973-617-5888/646-366-8823
waughk@toysrus.com

In conjunction with continuous shopping during the last few days leading up to Christmas, Toys“R”Us will hold a two-day sale from Tuesday, December 20 to Wednesday, December 21, offering even the biggest procrastinators blockbuster deals and values on some of the season’s “must-have” gifts. With shipments of the hottest toys arriving in stores every day until Christmas, customers will find holiday list-toppers such as Air Swimmers^® eXtreme from Animal Planet^™, The Trash Pack^™ Garbage Truck from Moose Toys^®, Radica^® Fijit Friends^™ from Mattel and Sesame Street^® Let’s Rock! Elmo^™ from Hasbro^®. Plus, with extended shipping deadlines and “Buy Online, Pick Up In Store” available through Christmas Eve, last-minute holiday shoppers will have the opportunity to take advantage of the best deals and savings just in time for Christmas morning.

“For the second consecutive year, our stores will remain open continuously during the days leading up to Christmas, allowing shoppers more time and more ways to shop with Toys“R”Us than ever before,” said Greg Ahearn, Chief Marketing Officer, Toys“R”Us, U.S. “Whether gift-givers want to finish their holiday shopping at Toys“R”Us stores or online at Toysrus.com, they’ll be sure to find the broadest assortment of toys anywhere, at any time, all at values that elicit Christmas cheer.”

Now, More Than Ever, It’s Not Too Late to Shop Online

Online shoppers visiting Toysrus.com will find the same exceptional deals and savings, along with convenient services such as “Buy Online, Pick Up In Store” to ensure a gift’s timely arrival under the Christmas tree. Customers who prefer to shop against the clock all the way up to December 24 can choose “Buy Online, Pick Up In Store” for all of their last-minute gifts. Orders submitted online by 2pm on Christmas Eve can still be picked up in store on the same day it is ordered, so that presents can be wrapped and ready for Christmas morning. For shoppers looking to get their gift to a recipient in another state, “Family and Friends Pick Up” allows a customer to designate an alternate person to pick up their order at the store of their choice, anywhere in the country. Additionally, online shoppers can browse a broad selection of playthings on Toysrus.com and make purchases for guaranteed delivery on December 24 with express shipping^** on orders placed by Thursday, December 22 by 3pm EST.

Kicking off 112 hours of shopping, savvy customers looking for savings in the coming week will find the following deals and discounts, among many others, available in-store and online at Toysrus.com all day Tuesday, December 20 and Wednesday, December 21, while supplies last^***:

• FREE $35 Toys“R”Us Gift Card with the purchase of any Nintendo^®  3DS^™ Handheld System (in-store only)
• FREE Nintendo 3DS^™Game with the purchase of Nintendo 3DS Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure Starter Pack – Up to $39.99 Value (select games)
• 60% OFF LEAPFROG^® Fix and Learn Speedy –  Was $24.99; Now $9.99
• 50% OFF All Nintendo^® DS Starter Kits priced from $2.49 to $19.99 each (in-store only – prices vary)
• 50% OFF Barbie^® Beach Dolls – Was $6.99; Now $3.49
• 40% OFF ALL Imaginarium^® wooden toys priced $59.99 or less – prices vary
• SAVE $60 on AVIGO Mini Cooper^® – Was $299.99; Now $239.99
• SAVE OVER $35 on COBY^® 7” 4GB Tablet 7” LCD – Was $179.99; Now $144.88
• SAVE $30 on Nikon^® CoolPix^® 14MP L24 camera– Was $119.99; Now $89.99
• BUY ONE GET ONE 50% OFF ALL Moxie Girlz^™ Magic Hair, Sisterz and Dazzle Dance dolls –  Now $19.99 - $24.99 each

Toys“R”Us Times Square Offers More Than 200 Hours of Continuous Shopping

Toys“R”Us Times Square, the company’s international flagship store, will remain open from 6am on Friday, December 16 through 10pm on Christmas Eve, providing gift-givers with a record-breaking 208 consecutive hours of shopping. In addition to offering New Yorkers and tourists the same deals and savings that can be found at Toys“R”Us stores nationwide, Toys“R”Us Times Square also offers specialty services, such as Personal Shopping and Corporate Sales, where highly trained staff can provide one-on-one attention and expert assistance in helping shoppers find the right gift quickly and easily. Personal Shoppers are available Monday through Saturday from 8am to 11pm and Sunday from 8am to 9pm.  Gift-wrapping and shipping (to local, national and international locations) are also available at Toys“R”Us Times Square to offer customers a convenient shopping experience.

New and Current Rewards“R”Us^® Members Can Still Earn 10% Back Through Christmas Eve

New and current members of the company’s complimentary loyalty program, Rewards“R”Us, can earn 10 percent back on purchases made in-store and online at Toysrus.com. Now through Christmas Eve, Rewards“R”Us members can earn 10 percent back in “R”Us Dollars for every dollar spent on qualifying purchases^****, including electronics. Members can participate in this special promotion by presenting their loyalty card at any “R”Us store nationwide or entering their loyalty number online with purchase at Toysrus.com or Babiesrus.com. “R”Us Dollars earned will be delivered to members via e-mail in January and can be used toward savings on future in-store purchases.^*****

^*Stores in Paramus, NJ, select stores in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, as well as the Toys“R”Us Express and Outlet stores, will not be open 24 hours per day. Some Toys“R”Us store locations will close at 8 or 9pm on Christmas Eve. All store hours can be found online at Toysrus.com/StoreLocator.
^**Shipping fees are applied with express shipping.
^***Quantities limited, no rain checks.
^****Maximum reward accumulation during this holiday period is $50 “R”Us Dollars. Qualifying purchases exclude gift cards, shipping and handling charges and reward-eligible greeting cards, formula and diapers.
^*****Valid dates may vary on reward certificates.

About Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 872 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in more than 600 international stores and over 140 licensed stores in 35 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com and FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates annually worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Additional information about Toys“R”Us, Inc. can be found on Toysrusinc.com. Follow Toys“R”Us, Babies“R”Us and FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/Toysrus, Facebook.com/Babiesrus and Facebook.com/FAO and on Twitter at Twitter.com/Toysrus and Twitter.com/Babiesrus.

Media Contacts:
Toys"R"Us, Inc.
Jennifer Albano
(973) 617-5632
Jennifer.Albano@toysrus.com

Katelyn Leondi
(973) 617-4398
Katelyn.Leondi@toysrus.com

Jerry Storch, Chairman and CEO, Toys“R”Us, Inc., stated, “During the third quarter, we prepared for the upcoming holiday season and took some important steps to position the company for long-term growth.”

“Recently, we acquired the majority stake in our operations in China and Southeast Asia, presenting what we believe will be a significant opportunity for the company.  And, just two weeks ago, we opened our first store in Poland.  International growth in new and emerging markets remains a key part of our overall business strategy.”

“At the same time, among our most important strategic priorities in the U.S. is creating new ways for customers to shop seamlessly between our online and bricks and mortar businesses, wherever, whenever, and however they choose.  Important to increasing the depth of our omnichannel services, was the recent opening of our state-of-the-art ecommerce fulfillment center in Nevada, which provides increased capacity to meet the needs of our customers who shop online” concluded Mr. Storch.

Third Quarter Highlights

• Net sales were $2,700 million, compared to $2,719 million in the prior year. The Learning and Core Toy categories continued to be strong, generating net sales growth of 3.8% and 2.7%, respectively. The Entertainment category (which includes video game hardware and software) was down 14.5%, reflecting overall softness across the video game industry. Excluding the Entertainment category, net sales increased 0.9%.
• Comparable store net sales decreased by 2.2% in the Domestic segment and 3.9% in the International segment. Internet sales continued to be strong.
• Gross margin dollars were $986 million, compared to $987 million in the prior year. Gross margin, as a percentage of net sales, was 36.5%, an increase of 0.2 percentage points.
• Selling, general and administrative expenses (“SG&A”) were $973 million, compared to $957 million in the prior year. Excluding the impact of foreign currency translation of $22 million, SG&A decreased primarily as a result of a decrease in litigation settlement expenses for certain legal matters.
• Operating loss was $75 million, compared to $62 million in the prior year. Adjusted EBITDA¹ was $36 million, compared to $49 million in the prior year.
• Interest expense declined $52 million. The prior year period was higher primarily due to the write-off of deferred financing charges as a result of debt refinancings.
• Net loss before income taxes improved by $39 million to a loss of $179 million, compared to a loss of $218 million in the prior year. Net loss after income taxes was $93 million, consistent with the same period last year and reflects a decrease in interest expense, which was offset by a decrease in income tax benefit and an increase in SG&A.
• Foreign currency translation had the following impacts in the third quarter of fiscal 2011: Net sales were increased by $63 million, gross margin was increased by $24 million and SG&A was increased by $22 million. Foreign currency translation did not have a material impact on operating loss and net loss.

Note: All comparisons are versus the same period one year ago.

Liquidity and Capital Spending

The Company ended the quarter with total liquidity of $1.8 billion including cash and cash equivalents of $432 million and unused available lines of credit of $1,367 million.  Stockholders' equity was $210 million, up from a deficit of $3 million in the prior year.

The Company's capital expenditure program is a key component of its long-term juvenile integration strategy, which integrates the toy and juvenile businesses into one store. Through the end of the third quarter of fiscal 2011, the Company invested $266 million primarily to convert, expand and remodel existing stores, open new stores and upgrade its information technology systems and capabilities, compared to $231 million in the prior year.

Subsequent Events

Subsequent to the end of the third quarter on October 31, 2011, the Company acquired a 70% ownership interest in Toys (Labuan) Holding Limited (“Labuan”) from Li & Fung Retailing Limited (“Li & Fung”) for a purchase price of approximately $80 million plus $5 million of contingent consideration.  The terms of the agreement also provide us with the future option to acquire Li & Fung's 30% interest in the business and also provides Li & Fung the option to require us to buy their 30% interest in the business.

As of October 31, 2011, Labuan operated 90 Toys “R” Us retail stores in Brunei, China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand.  These stores are now considered part of our operated store count, bringing the total to more than 600 operated stores in our International business.  Additionally, Labuan has sublicensed to a third party the right to operate stores in the Philippines and Macau, which are not included in the Company's operated store count.

The results of operations of Labuan will be included in our consolidated financial statements for fiscal 2011 from the date of acquisition.  The Company does not expect this acquisition to have a material impact on our consolidated results of operations in fiscal 2011.

¹A detailed description and reconciliation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA, and management's reasons for using these measures, are set forth at the end of this press release.
 

Further information regarding the Company's financial performance in the third quarter of fiscal 2011 is presented in its quarterly report on Form 10-Q, which was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 9, 2011.
 

About Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world's leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 876 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in more than 600 international stores and over 140 licensed stores in 35 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand's flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.comand FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates annually worldwide. The Company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Additional information about Toys“R”Us, Inc. can be found on Toysrusinc.com. Follow Toys“R”Us, Babies“R”Us and FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/Toysrus, Facebook.com/Babiesrusand Facebook.com/FAOand on Twitter at Twitter.com/Toysrusand Twitter.com/Babiesrus.

This press release contains “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which are intended to be covered by the safe harbors created thereby. All statements herein that are not historical facts, including statements about our beliefs or expectations, are forward-looking statements. We generally identify these statements by words or phrases such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “plan,” “expect,” “project”, “forecast”, “foresee”, “outlook”, “believe,” “intend,” “will,” “may,” and similar words or phrases. These statements discuss, among other things, our strategy, store openings and renovations, capital spending, future financial or operational performance including profitable growth expectations, anticipated cost savings, results of restructurings, anticipated domestic or international developments, and other goals, targets and future occurrences and trends. These statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, including, among others, competition in the retail industry and changes in our product distribution mix and distribution channels, seasonality of our business, changes in consumer preferences and consumer spending patterns, product safety issues including product recalls, general economic conditions in the United States and other countries in which we conduct our business, our ability to implement our strategy, our substantial level of indebtedness and related debt-service obligations, restrictions imposed by covenants in our debt agreements, availability of adequate financing, changes in laws that impact our business, changes in employment legislation, our dependence on key vendors for our merchandise, costs of goods that we sell, labor costs, transportation costs, domestic and international events affecting the delivery of toys and other products to our stores, political and other developments associated with our international operations, existence of adverse litigation and other risks, uncertainties and factors set forth under Item 1A entitled “RISK FACTORS” of our Annual Report on Form 10-K and in our other reports and documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (which reports and documents should be read in conjunction with this press release). We believe that all forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions when made; however, we caution that it is impossible to predict actual results or outcomes or the effects of risks, uncertainties or other factors on anticipated results or outcomes and that, accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on these statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date when made, and we undertake no obligation to update these statements in light of subsequent events or developments. Actual results and outcomes may differ materially from anticipated results or outcomes discussed in forward-looking statements.

# # #

For more information please contact:

Kathleen Waugh, Vice President, Corporate Communications at 973-617-5888, 646-366-8823 or waughk@toysrus.com

Bruce Bishop, Vice President, Investor Relations at 973-617-5160 or Bruce.Bishop@toysrus.com

Non-GAAP Disclosure of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA
 

We believe Adjusted EBITDA is useful to investors because it is frequently used by securities analysts, investors and other interested parties in the evaluation of companies in our industry. Investors of the Company regularly request Adjusted EBITDA as a supplemental analytical measure to, and in conjunction with, the Company's GAAP financial data. We understand that investors use Adjusted EBITDA, among other things, to assess our period-to-period operating performance and to gain insight into the manner in which management analyzes operating performance.

In addition, we believe that Adjusted EBITDA is useful in evaluating our operating performance compared to that of other companies in our industry because the calculation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA generally eliminates the effects of financing and income taxes and the accounting effects of capital spending and acquisitions, which items may vary for different companies for reasons unrelated to overall operating performance. We use the non-GAAP financial measures for planning and forecasting and measuring results against the forecast and in certain cases we use similar measures for bonus targets for certain of our employees. Using several measures to evaluate the business allows us and investors to assess our relative performance against our competitors.

Although we believe that Adjusted EBITDA can make an evaluation of our operating performance more consistent because it removes items that do not reflect our core operations, other companies, even in the same industry, may define Adjusted EBITDA differently than we do. As a result, it may be difficult to use Adjusted EBITDA or similarly named non-GAAP measures that other companies may use to compare the performance of those companies to our performance. The Company does not, and investors should not, place undue reliance on EBITDA or Adjusted EBITDA as measures of operating performance.

A reconciliation of Net loss attributable to Toys "R" Us, Inc. to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA is as follows:

(a) Represents the fees paid to Bain Capital Partners LLC, Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. L.P., and Vornado Realty Trust (collectively, the "Sponsors") in accordance with the advisory agreement.
(b) Represents a non-cash cumulative correction of prior period lease accounting.
(c) Represents costs incurred in conjunction with the acquisition of 70% ownership interest in Toys (Labuan) Holding Limited from Li & Fung Retailing Limited.
(d) Represents the write-off of damaged assets and repairs from an earthquake and resulting tsunami that hit the Northeast coast of Japan, a store fire in Australia and other property losses which occurred domestically.
(e) Represents the incremental compensation expense (income) related to the fair market value remeasurement of existing liability awards.
(f) Litigation settlement expenses recorded for certain legal matters.
(g) Represents miscellaneous other charges consisting primarily of gains (losses) from property sales, store closure costs, certain litigation expenses, impairments, restructuring and certain severance which were not individually significant for separate disclosure. Commencing in fiscal 2011, we have revised our definition of Adjusted EBITDA to include certain severance and store closure costs and have therefore revised our prior year Adjusted EBITDA balance to include such expenses. For the thirteen weeks ended October 30, 2010, store closure costs were $3 million. For the thirty-nine weeks ended October 30, 2010, severance and store closure costs were $3 million and $4 million.
(h) Adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA (earnings (loss) before net interest income (expense), income tax expense (benefit), depreciation and amortization), as further adjusted to exclude the effects of certain income and expense items that management believes make it more difficult to assess the Company's actual operating performance. Although the nature of many of these income and expense items is recurring, we have historically excluded such impact from internal performance assessments. We believe that excluding items such as Sponsors' management and advisory fees, asset impairment charges, restructuring charges, impact of litigation, noncontrolling interest, gain (loss) on sale of properties and other charges, helps investors compare our operating performance with our results in prior periods. We believe it is appropriate to exclude these items as they are not related to ongoing operating performance and, therefore, limit comparability between periods and between us and similar companies.
 

In addition, Toys“R”Us is making its Biggest Christmas Sale Ever (taking place now through Saturday, December 10) even bigger by offering more than 75 doorbusters beginning at 6am on Saturday, in addition to significant storewide savings.

“In the final days before Christmas, Toys“R”Us is committed to helping its customers be the best ‘Santas’ they can be by offering access to the most elusive, ‘gotta-have-it’ gifts of the season,” said Greg Ahearn, Chief Marketing Officer, Toys“R”Us, U.S.  “More than ever, we know consumers are looking for value, and with incredible savings in our stores and online each day right up until Christmas, our customers know they can count on us to provide both the items they want and great prices.”

With Frequent Deliveries of the Hottest Toys, Toys“R”Us Stores Will Have More Inventory of In-Demand Gifts than the North Pole

To the delight of shoppers racing to check off items on their holiday shopping lists, Toys“R”Us stores nationwide will receive daily deliveries of some of the season’s hottest toys now through Christmas Eve.  In addition to having more LeapPad Explorers available than any other retailer, the company will have the best in-stock position on many additional hot toys, including Lalaloopsy^™ Littles dolls, The Trash Pack^™, Poppin’ Park^™ Elefun^® Busy Ball Popper^®, and Xia-Xia hermit crabs and accessories in the days leading up to Christmas.

Company Supersizes Its Biggest Christmas Sale Ever with Weekend of Stupendous Savings

To help parents save while crossing “must-have” gifts off of their lists, Toys“R”Us will offer some of the lowest prices of the season through a weekend of savings, which kicks off with a two-day sale on Friday, December 9 at 3pm and continues through 1pm on Saturday, December 10.  Plus, the company will unleash more than 75 doorbusters beginning at 6am on Saturday.  These deals are in addition to those still available through its Biggest Christmas Sale Ever, which runs through Saturday, December 10.

Below are highlights of the two-day sale at Toys“R”Us stores and online at Toysrus.com beginning Friday, December 9 at 3pm through Saturday, December 10 at 1pm, while supplies last:

BUY ONE, GET ONE 50% OFF ALL Barbie^® toys – prices vary^***
BUY ONE, GET ONE 50% OFF ALL Nerf – prices vary^***
BUY ONE, GET ONE 50% OFF ALL LEGO^® construction sets – prices vary^***
BUY ONE, GET ONE 50% OFF ALL Bakugan^® figures and accessories – prices vary^***
BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE ON ALL Disney^® DVDs and Blu-Rays – prices vary^***
BUY ONE, GET ONE 50% OFF ALL Video games, accessories and guides – prices vary^***
50% OFF Moon Dough^™ Super Value Pack – Was: $29.99; Now: $14.99
30% OFF LeapFrog Leapster^™ 2 – Was: $49.99; Now: $34.99
25% OFF I Am T-Pain^™ Mic – Was: $39.99; Now: $29.99
20% OFF ALL Schwinn^® bikes – prices vary
SAVE $30 on SmarTrike^™ Red or Pink Zoo Trikes – Was: $129.99; Now: $99.99

Below are highlights of the doorbusters available in-store only starting at 6am on Saturday, December 9, while supplies last:

BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE ON ALL Girls Squinkies^™ Bubble Packs – prices vary
FREE $100 Toys“R”Us gift card with the purchase of Sony 16GB Tablet
FREE $30 Toys“R”Us gift card with the purchase of any Apple iPod 8GB Nano
FREE $20 Toys“R”Us gift card and $15 iTunes card with the purchase of any iPod Touch
SAVE $20 on Let’s Rock Elmo – Was: $59.99; Now: $39.99^****
SAVE $70 on Imaginarium City Central Train Table – Was: $169.99; Now: $99.99
SAVE $45 on Justin Bieber Tour Bus with Exclusive Justin Bieber doll – Was: $99.98; Now: $54.98
SAVE $25 on FAO Schwarz^®-branded 18” Toddler Dolls – Was: $59.99; Now: $34.99
50% OFF Razor^® S Scooters^™– Was: $39.99; Now:  $19.99
50% OFF Alphabet Elmo^™– Was: $29.99; Now: $14.99
25% OFF ALL Annoying Orange^™products – prices vary
25% OFF ANY LEGO^® Heroica Board Game – prices vary
20% OFF Lalaloopsy Peppy Pom Poms Cheerleader doll – Was: $24.99; Now: $20

*Quantities vary by store and are limited per person. Check your local store for details.
** While supplies last.
*** Available in-store only.  Some exclusions may apply.
**** Also available online at Toysrus.com and all day Sunday, December 11.

About Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 872 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in more than 600 international stores and over 140 licensed stores in 35 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com and FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates annually worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Additional information about Toys“R”Us, Inc. can be found on Toysrusinc.com. Follow Toys“R”Us, Babies“R”Us and FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/Toysrus, Facebook.com/Babiesrus and Facebook.com/FAO and on Twitter at Twitter.com/Toysrus and Twitter.com/Babiesrus.

Media Contacts:
Toys"R"Us, Inc.
Jennifer Albano
(973) 617-5632
Jennifer.Albano@toysrus.com

Adrienne O'Hara
(973) 617-4383
Adrienne.Ohara@toysrus.com

More than a Dozen Buy One, Get One 50% Off Deals, Including:

• BUY ONE, GET ONE 50% OFF ALL Video Games and Accessories – prices vary^{* **}
• BUY ONE, GET ONE 50% OFF ALL NERF Sonic Series Blasters – prices vary^**
• BUY ONE, GET ONE 50% OFF Select Crayola^® Products – prices vary^**
• BUY ONE, GET ONE 50% OFF ALL Xia Xia items – prices vary^**

Eight Buy One and Buy Two, Get One Free Offers, Including:

• BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE ALL Zhu Zhu Pets – prices vary^**
• BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE ALL Zoobles – prices vary^**
• BUY TWO, GET THIRD FREE on ALL VTech^® items (excluding InnoTab) – prices vary^**
• BUY TWO, GET THIRD FREE on ALL Totally Me!^® craft sets – prices vary ^**

More than Thirty Free Gifts with Purchase, Including:

• FREE Barbie Hard Case Rolling Luggage with ANY Barbie purchase totaling $150 or more – $49.99 value
• FREE Calico Critters Family with ANY Calico Critters purchase totaling $100 or more –  $19.99 value
• FREE $10 Toys“R”Us Gift Card with ANY FAO Schwarz^® product purchase of $59.99 or more^***
• FREE LEGO Mini-Figure 2GB USB Drive with ANY LEGO construction set purchase totaling $75 or more (excluding Ninjago) – $19.99 value

Hot Deals on Hundreds of Items Available Exclusively at Toys“R”Us

• 25% OFF ALL The Trash Pack^™ items – prices vary
• 25% OFF ALL EduScience telescopes, microscopes and globes – prices vary
• 20% OFF ALL Moshi Monsters^™ items – prices vary
• SAVE $20 on Imaginarium^® 5-Way Giant Bead Maze Cube – Was $59.99; Now $39.99
• SAVE $6 on Lalaloopsy^™ Littles – Was $22.99; Now $16.99
• Toys“R”Us Exclusive Uglydoll Only $7.99 ($19.99 value) with ANY Uglydoll purchase totaling $20 or more

“As THE toy authority, we know shoppers are determined to find the right gifts and great values. We also know that customers count on Toys“R”Us to have the hot items in stock when they need them,” said Greg Ahearn, Chief Marketing Officer, Toys“R”Us, U.S. “As we continue to get shipments of the hottest products, from Uglydolls to The Trash Pack and Lalaloopsy Littles, there’s no reason to shop anywhere else other than The World’s Greatest Toy Store.”

Shopping is a Snap with Company’s Convenient Omnichannel Offerings and Extended Store Hours

With the “Buy Online, Pick Up In Store” service, customers can shop from the comfort of their own homes and pick up a purchase hours later in their local “R”Us store. Additionally, shoppers can now designate an alternate person to pick up their holiday purchase at a nearby store with “Family and Friends Pick Up.” A big hit with parents, especially during the busy gift-giving and traveling season, “Family and Friends Pick Up” enables gift-givers to enlist the assistance of others to make sure they can grab the hot toys while they’re available.   

Holiday shoppers will have even more time to find great deals as Toys“R”Us stores begin offering extended shopping hours. Now open Monday to Friday from 7 am – 12 midnight and on Saturday from 6 am – 12 midnight, customers can find time to shop, no matter what their schedule.^****

Loyalty Members Can Reap Rewards Just for Shopping Their Favorite Toy Store

New and current members of Rewards“R”Us, the company’s complimentary loyalty program will also receive 10 percent back on purchases this holiday season. Now through Christmas Eve, Rewards“R”Us members can earn 10 percent back in “R”Us Dollars for every dollar spenton qualifying purchases, including electronics, when they present their loyalty card at any “R”Us store nationwide or enter their loyalty number online with every purchase at Toysrus.com or Babiesrus.com. “R”Us Dollars earned will be delivered to members via e-mail in January and can be used toward savings on future in-store purchases.^*****

^*Excludes all game system hardware.
^**Free/discounted item must be of equal or lesser value to the lowest priced item purchased.
^***In-store purchase only.
^**** Stores in select markets will close at 1am on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Check with local Toys“R”Us stores for amended holiday hours. In general, these hours do not apply to Toys“R”Us Express locations, which will follow their respective mall hours. Check the Toys“R”Us store locator at Toysrus.com for expanded hours in select locations.
^*****Valid dates may vary on reward certificates. Customers who spend $500 or more will earn the maximum reward of $50 in “R”Us Dollars. Qualifying purchases exclude gift cards, shipping and handling charges and reward-eligible greeting cards, formula and diapers. Reward certificates cannot be used to purchase or cover the cost of diapers, formula, gift cards, photo studios, video game hardware, video games, video game accessories, Apple products, Motherhood Maternity, Buyer Protection Plan, assembly fee, breast-pump rental fee, delivery fee, and shipping and handling.

About Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 872 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in more than 600 international stores and over 140 licensed stores in 35 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com and FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates annually worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Additional information about Toys“R”Us, Inc. can be found on Toysrusinc.com. Follow Toys“R”Us, Babies“R”Us and FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/Toysrus, Facebook.com/Babiesrus and Facebook.com/FAO and on Twitter at Twitter.com/Toysrus and Twitter.com/Babiesrus.

Media Contacts:
Toys"R"Us, Inc.
Kerry Smith
(973) 617-4380
Kerry.Smith@toysrus.com

Adrienne O'Hara
(973) 617-4383
Adrienne.Ohara@toysrus.com

With fresh shipments of the hottest toys arriving in stores in time for the weekend, the first customers at stores when the doors open on Saturday will have access to some of the season’s most in-demand gifts. Offering an unparalleled in-stock position of “must-have” toys, Toys“R”Us serves as the one-stop destination for parents and gift-givers on the hunt for the toys topping kids’ wish lists this holiday season.

“On Black Friday, we saw the pent-up demand to shop for the best deals AND the must-have toys. So, we’re recreating the excitement and savings of Black Friday with ‘Super Sale Saturday’ at Toys“R”Us stores,” said Greg Ahearn, Chief Marketing Officer, Toys“R”Us, U.S. “We believe our customers will be delighted with the unprecedented Saturday savings, extended hours to shop and even more inventory on some of the season’s hottest toys.”

“Super Sale Saturday” Provides Shoppers with a Second Helping of Black Friday

Whether they skipped out on shopping on Black Friday or are coming back for more, beginning Saturday, December 3 at 6am, Toys“R”Us customers will have a renewed opportunity to take advantage of the kinds of deals and doorbusters typically reserved for the day after Thanksgiving.  This is in addition to incredible storewide savings on construction sets, learning toys, ride-on toys, collectibles and more.  Customers can find out about the more than 85 mystery doorbusters by visiting Toysrus.com and Facebook.com/Toysrus beginning Friday night.  Those who have registered their e-mail addresses and/or mobile phone numbers will be alerted to the deals by e-mail and SMS text messages. In-store signage will also be in place to help customers identify the doorbusters while they shop.

Following is a sneak peek at select doorbusters available at Toys“R”Us stores nationwide beginning 6am until stores close at 1am^* on “Super Sale Saturday,” December 3, while supplies last:

FREE Victorious Fashion Doll with the purchase of a Victorious Tote – $16.99 Value
SAVE $100 on Furreal Friends Butterscotch Pony – Was $199.99; Now $99.99
SAVE $70 on Step2 Neat & Tidy Cottage – Was $169.99; Now $99.99
SAVE $30 on the RAZOR Siege or Powerwing Scooter – prices vary
SAVE $30 on Disney Princess Royal Talking Princess Kitchen – Was $69.99; Now $39.99
60% OFF Ben 10 Alien Creation Chamber Laboratory – Was $49.99; Now $20
50% OFF Fast Lane Stunt City Playset – Was $39.99; Now $19.99
50% OFF MindFlex Mental Game – Was $79.99; Now $39.99
BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE ALL Moshi Monsters 1-Pack, 3-Pack and Plush – prices vary
BUY ONE, GET ONE 50% OFF Citizen Uglydoll plush – prices vary

Early Bird Catches the Worm – Or the Flying Fish – With Fresh Shipments of the Hottest Toys

Just in time for the weekend, Toys“R”Us stores will receive fresh shipments of the season’s hottest toys, ensuring the first customers to enter the store at 6am on Saturday, December 3 have access to some of the most sought-after items, including:

• Air Swimmers^® eXtreme from Animal Planet^™
• Angry Birds^™ 5-Inch Plush from Commonwealth^®
• Lalaloopsy^™ Littles dolls from MGA Entertainment^®
• Poppin’ Park^™ Elefun^® Busy Ball Popper^® from Playskool^®
• Sesame Street^® Let’s Rock! Elmo^™ from Hasbro^®
• Xia-Xia^™ from Cepia^, LLC

Toys“R”Us stores will continue to receive daily deliveries of these toys and other top sellers through Christmas Eve.

Expanded Shopping Hours

Toys“R”Us stores across the country are opening earlier and closing later to accommodate more shoppers on “Super Sale Saturday” and throughout the weekend.  Stores will be open during the following extended hours this weekend^*:

Friday, December 2:  8am – 1am
Saturday, December 3:  6am – 1am
Sunday, December 4:  7am – 12midnight

New and Current Rewards“R”Us^® Members Still Have Time to Earn 10% Back

New and current members of the company’s complimentary loyalty program, Rewards“R”Us, can earn 10 percent back on purchases made in-store and online at Toysrus.com. Now through Christmas Eve, Rewards“R”Us members can earn 10 percent back in “R”Us Dollars for every dollar spent on qualifying purchases^**, including electronics.  Members can participate in this special promotion by presenting their loyalty card at any “R”Us store nationwide or entering their loyalty number online with purchase at Toysrus.com or Babiesrus.com. “R”Us Dollars earned will be delivered to members via e-mail in January and can be used toward savings on future in-store purchases.^***

*Store hours may vary. Stores in Paramus, NJ will close at 11pm, and select stores in Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island  and Puerto Rico have varying store hours. Visit Toysrus.com/StoreLocator for store hours.
**Maximum reward accumulation during this holiday period is $50 “R”Us Dollars. Qualifying purchases exclude gift cards, shipping and handling charges and reward-eligible greeting cards, formula and diapers.
***Valid dates may vary on reward certificates.

About Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 872 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in more than 600 international stores and over 140 licensed stores in 35 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com and FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates annually worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Additional information about Toys“R”Us, Inc. can be found on Toysrusinc.com. Follow Toys“R”Us, Babies“R”Us and FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/Toysrus, Facebook.com/Babiesrus and Facebook.com/FAO and on Twitter at Twitter.com/Toysrus and Twitter.com/Babiesrus.

Media Contacts:
Toys"R"Us, Inc.
Jennifer Albano
(973) 617-5632
Jennifer.Albano@toysrus.com

Katie Reczek
973-617-4381
Katie.Reczek@toysrus.com

Gift-givers looking to start their holiday shopping early can visit Toysrus.com beginning at 7am on Thanksgiving Day to find exclusive online-only deals on thousands of items, including some of the hottest toys of the season. Then at 9pm, the extraordinary values that will be found in Toys“R”Us stores nationwide when they open on Thanksgiving night^* will also be made available online at Toysrus.com.^** The site will also unveil more than 100 online-only deals for Friday, November 25, and Saturday, November 26. In addition, new and current Rewards“R”Us^® members can earn 10 percent back on purchases through Saturday, December 24.^***

“This holiday season, we are pulling out all the stops on Toysrus.com by offering extraordinary deals on thousands of items, including the hottest, most in-demand toys,” said Greg Ahearn, Chief Marketing Officer, Toys“R”Us, U.S. “Gift-givers are sure to find savings on the perfect present while shopping our biggest Cyber Week sale ever, and taking advantage of our site-wide free shipping offer.”   

Toysrus.com Deals Starting at 7am on Thanksgiving, November 24, while supplies last:

• 40% OFF ALL Halo Action Figures and Vehicles
• 40% OFF ALL Green Lantern Action Figures and Playsets
• 30% OFF ALL Bakugan
• 25% OFF ALL Victorious Dolls
• SAVE UP TO 30% on Select Swing Sets and Accessories
• 25% OFF ALL Hello Kitty^® Electronics
• BUY ONE GET ONE 50% OFF ALL Blu-Ray and DVD Movies
• SAVE UP TO 25% on Select Bikes, Trikes, Wagons and Scooters
• 20% OFF ALL Casio and Yamaha Keyboards
• 20% OFF ALL First Act Musical Instruments
• SAVE UP TO 20% on ALL Step2^® Outdoor Toys and Ride-Ons

In addition, starting at 12:01am on Thanksgiving Day, MasterCard^® cardholders can take advantage of a special online-only limited time offer on Toysrus.com enabling them to save $25 on toy purchases of $150 or more when ANY MasterCard card is used at checkout.^****

Toysrus.com Kicks Off its Biggest Cyber Week Ever with Super Savings on Thousands of Items Beginning at 6pm on Sunday, November 27 (unless otherwise noted), while supplies last:

• FREE Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure^™with the purchase of Red Nintendo 3DS with Mario Bundle for $199.99^***** ($69.99 value. This deal begins at 8am on Monday, November 28. Limit 3000.)
• FREE Game, Controller or Headset (up to $59.99 value) with the purchase of Xbox^® 360 4GB with Kinect for $299.99
• BUY ONE GET ONE 60% OFF hundreds of video game titles
• BUY ONE GET ONE 50% OFF ALL Calico Critters^™
• SAVE UP TO 40% on ALL NERF Blasters and Sports
• 30% OFF ALL KRE-O TRANSFORMERS
• SAVE UP TO 30% on ALL Little Tikes^® Bouncers and Ride-Ons
• SAVE UP TO 30% on ALL Razor^® Scooters
• 25% OFF ALL Chicco^® Toys
• 25% OFF ALL Transformers Action Figures and Role Play
• 25% OFF ALL Star Wars Action Figures and Role Play
• 20% OFF ALL Lamaze^® Infant Toys
• 20% OFF ALL Victorious Toys and Electronics
• SAVE UP TO 20% on ALL Power Wheels^® Ride-Ons
• 20% OFF ALL Easy-Bake Ovens and Refills
• 20% OFF ALL Power Rangers Action Figures
• 20% OFF ALL THUNDERCATS Action Figures
• 20% OFF ALL Justin Bieber Dolls and Room Décor
• Save $15 on any Barbie^® Dolls or Playsets purchase totaling $100 or more
• Save $10 on any Lalaloopsy^™ Dolls or Playsets purchase totaling $60 or more
• Save $10 on any Hot Wheels^® Vehicles or Playsets purchase totaling $60 or more

Savvy shoppers can check back each day on Toysrus.com for new and exciting deals all week long! Those shopping for babies and toddlers can also take advantage of UP TO 30% OFF thousands of items on Babiesrus.com, including car seats, strollers, furniture and much more, during the site’s biggest Cyber Week ever beginning at 6pm on Sunday, November 27 through Saturday, December 3.

Free Shipping Offers on Toysrus.com Beginning Thanksgiving Day

From Thanksgiving Day through Cyber Week, Toysrus.com will offer free shipping on purchases of $49 or more site-wide. Also, during Cyber Week customers can take advantage of “Buy Online, Pick Up In Store,” a service that offers customers the ability to shop the fantastic deals online, while giving them the flexibility to pick up their purchases conveniently at the Guest Services desk at a nearby “R”Us^® store. Appealing to customers who want to avoid shipping costs, “Buy Online, Pick Up In Store” is a complimentary service and guarantees in-store access within two hours of ordering. 

Items eligible for “Buy Online, Pick Up In Store” are indicated as such on their product pages on Toysrus.com. Customers can enter their zip code to find the nearest stores with inventory to determine where the item is available for pick up. Orders must be picked up within five days, and only the purchaser or a person they have designated during the checkout process may pick up the order. A driver’s license or government-issued ID is required to pick up an online order in-store. 

Toysrus.com Offers Cyber Shoppers Flexible Payment Options

Toysrus.com continues to offer the most convenient and efficient ways for customers to shop and pay for their purchases. To find the perfect gifts for little ones this Christmas, shoppers can browse customer reviews and product videos, as well as use the online Gift Finder to find the right present to fit every budget. In addition, customers have the option of paying with a variety of secure options, including PayPal^™, Bill Me Later^®, credit cards, Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us^® gift cards, as well as eGift cards.

Online deal-seekers shopping during Cyber Week can take advantage of a limited-time Bill Me Later offer to make flexible payments over time as an alternative to the company’s in-store layaway program. Through Saturday, December 31, eligible customers can enjoy no payments plus no interest if paid in full in six months for purchases over $100 or no payments plus no interest if paid in full in 12 months for purchases over $500.^*****

^*Toys“R”Us stores nationwide will open at 9pm on Thursday, November 24, except for stores in Paramus, NJ, which will open on Friday, November 25 at 7am, and select stores in Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Puerto Rico, which will have varying store open times. In general, these hours do not apply to Toys“R”Us Express or Outlet locations, which will follow the hours of their respective shopping centers. All store hours can be found online at www.Toysrus.com/BlackFridayStoreHours.
^**Gift Card with purchase offers will be available in-store only.
^***Excludes purchases of gift cards, shipping and handling charges, and reward eligible greeting cards, formula, diapers and LeapFrog products. See a store employee or Toysrus.com/Rewards for maximum rewards and complete details. Customers who spend $500 or more will earn the maximum reward of $50 in “R”Us Dollars.
^****For a limited time, receive $25 off your toy purchase of $150 or more (excluding tax, shipping and Buyer Protection Plan) when you use any MasterCard Card at checkout.   $150 or more must be spent on a MasterCard Card in order to receive the discount. Neither purchase of a gift card nor purchase made using a gift card applies toward the $150. Offer applies to online transactions at Toysrus.com only.  Discount will be applied automatically during checkout when a MasterCard card is used as method of payment.  Offer not applicable to canceled orders due to out-of-stock merchandise.  Discount not applicable with returned merchandise; total discount will be deducted from the value of any returned item to which the discount applied.  This promotional offer may be modified or terminated at any time without notice.  We reserve the right to cancel any order due to unauthorized, altered, or ineligible use of a discount.  MasterCard and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated.
^*****Bill Me Later is subject to credit approval as determined by the lender, WebBank, Salt Lake City, Utah and is available to US customers who are of legal age in their state of residence. You must pay with Bill Me Later^® to get the offer. Click here to view important disclosures about payment amounts and terms. Offer expires at 11:59PM EST on December 31, 2011.

About Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 873 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in more than 600 international stores and over 140 licensed stores in 35 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com and FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates annually worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Additional information about Toys“R”Us, Inc. can be found on Toysrusinc.com. Follow Toys“R”Us, Babies“R”Us and FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/Toysrus, Facebook.com/Babiesrus and Facebook.com/FAO and on Twitter at Twitter.com/Toysrus and Twitter.com/Babiesrus.

Media Contacts:
Toys"R"Us, Inc.
Jennifer Albano
(973) 617-5632
Jennifer.Albano@toysrus.com

Meghan Kennedy
(973) 617-4807
Meghan.Kennedy@toysrus.com

“Mobile commerce is our fastest growing channel of consumer engagement, as shoppers increasingly use their smartphones to research gifts, get product reviews, compare prices, check availability of an item at a local store, save money with deals and pay for their purchases,” said Greg Ahearn, Chief Marketing Officer, Toys“R”Us, U.S.  “As new technologies emerge, we continue to partner with leading providers to enhance our mobile offerings, making it easier than ever for Toys“R”Us customers to navigate our stores and websites to find the must-have gifts for the kids in their lives.”

Finding the RIGHT Gift with Toys“R”Us on iPhone and Android: In addition to ongoing mobile offerings for iPhone and Android, by the end of this month, Toys“R”Us shoppers will have the ability to look up a little one’s Toys“R”Us Wish List via the Toys“R”Us app on their smartphone.  A version of the Toys“R”Us Gift Finder, currently accessible on Toysrus.com and the company’s iPad app, will also be available for iPhone and Android devices.  The Gift Finder asks gift-givers a series of questions about the child they’re shopping for, and provides gift suggestions based on age and interests. And, when customers search for a product, they will be able to sort the results by relevance, best-selling items, top-rated items or price. 

Milo and RedLaser 3.0 for iPhone Allow Easy Access to Product Availability: On-the-go shoppers can also use their smartphones to check the availability of a specific product they’re looking for at a local Toys“R”Us store through the company’s partnership with eBay that makes local inventory searchable on free mobile apps Milo and RedLaser 3.0.  Using the RedLaser 3.0 app for iPhone, customers can pay for the item they’re looking for within the app, and then pick up their item at a nearby store. 

Location-Based Programs Foursquare and shopkick Provide Additional Ways to Save: Parents and gift-givers shopping at Toys“R”Us on Thursday, November 24 and Friday, November 25 for the official start to the holiday season can check-in at their local store via Foursquare to receive the Geoffrey Holiday Badge, while supplies last. After unlocking the badge, those who check-in can redeem a coupon for 15% off a purchase of $150 or more, valid Sunday, November 27 through Saturday, December 3*.  In addition, Super Swarm deals will be unlocked when 15 people check in at the same Toys“R”Us location within a three-hour timeframe on Thursday, November 24 and Friday, November 25, allowing participants to choose from the following offers: Buy One, Get One 40% off no-contract phone cards or 40% off all Incredible Edibles**.  Throughout the remainder of the holiday season, shoppers can unlock the Geoffrey Holiday Badge and additional special savings opportunities when checking in at Toys“R”Us on Foursquare.

In approximately 100 Toys“R”Us stores in the New York, San Francisco, Chicago and Los Angeles metro areas, customers can receive savings just by walking in the door through a partnership with shopkick. Shopkick rewards shoppers just for visiting thousands of partner retailers nationwide, allowing them to earn “kicks” that can be redeemed for Toys“R”Us gift cards, among other things.  Shopkick users visiting participating Toys“R”Us stores from Thursday, November 24 to Saturday, November 26 can earn 500 kicks, and a coupon for $10 off the purchase of $100 or more that can be used the following week.

Google Wallet Available in 200 “R” Us^®Stores: Customers in approximately 200 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in major metro areas, including New York, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., Chicago and San Francisco can use their phone to pay for their purchases using Google Wallet.  Google Wallet is a new payment option that uses near-field communication technology to turn a shopper’s cell phone into their wallet, allowing them to pay for purchases, and even redeem coupons, by simply tapping their phone on a special reader installed at the register.  Google Wallet is presently available on Sprint Nexus S 4G phones.

QR Codes Bring the Hottest Toys of the Season to Life

Customers have responded enthusiastically to the dynamic, interactive content provided by quick response, or QR codes, that the company has used to supplement print advertising vehicles, product packaging and in-store signage.

For example, in the approximately two weeks following the launch of The Great Big Toys“R”Us Book, the four product-specific QR codes throughout the catalog for Air Swimmers^® eXtreme from Animal Planet^™, My Keepon^® from Wow! Stuff, Moshi Monsters^™ from Spin Master^™ and The Trash Pack^™ from Moose Toys^® and the Fast Lane^® JLX Matrix^™ from Toys“R”Us, were scanned tens of thousands of times. Each item’s accompanying QR code lets viewers see demonstrations of the product in action, such as My Keepon bopping to a dance beat or the Air Swimmers eXtreme sneaking up on an unsuspecting parent.

QR codes are also available as part of in-store signage and on individual product packaging to showcase product demos or provide additional information on how a particular program works.  For example, packaging for five select items from the True Heroes^® L.A.S.E.R. line, the company’s foremost action figure and role play brand that highlights the real heroes of the future, features QR codes that allow customers to access a unique online comic experience for kids where the stories of the characters’ adventures come to life, bringing action figure play into the digital world.

Mobile Messaging, Barcode Scanners and eGift Cards Make It Easy to Save and Pay On-the-Go

Customers can opt-in to the company’s “R” Mobile Messaging program to have the week’s best deals at Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us^® sent directly to their mobile phones. SMS messages are sent up to twice per week, and highlight some of the most compelling savings offers currently available.  Customers can text “DEALS4” to 78697 for Toys“R”Us deals, “DEALS7” to 72229 for Babies“R”Us offers, and “EEDEALS” to 78697 to receive special notification regarding electronics deals.***

The company supports “R” Mobile Messaging with a comprehensive marketing program, inclusive of placement in print circulars and colorful in-store signage complete with the easy-to-follow “text” instructions on how to become a subscriber described above. In addition, all signage promoting the mobile messaging program in “R”Us stores across the country features the “R” Mobile icon: a backwards “ringing” “R.” 

All Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores are also equipped with coupon barcode scanners, which allow store associates to scan customers’ mobile e-mail coupons straight from their mobile devices – no coupon clipping required!

Shoppers can also pay for their purchases using their mobile devices with Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us eGift Cards, which can be sent from a gift-giver to the recipient electronically via e-mail, and the recipient can redeem the gift card in-store via their mobile device. Those who wish to send eGift Cards to loved ones can visit Toysrus.com/GiftCertificates to browse the latest holiday offerings.

About Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 873 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in more than 600 international stores and over 140 licensed stores in 35 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com and FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates annually worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Additional information about Toys“R”Us, Inc. can be found on Toysrusinc.com. Follow Toys“R”Us, Babies“R”Us and FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/Toysrus, Facebook.com/Babiesrus and Facebook.com/FAO, and on Twitter at Twitter.com/Toysrus and Twitter.com/Babiesrus.

*Valid in-store only. One coupon per guest. Excludes baby food, diapers, formula, wipes, Ameda, Baby Brezza, Baby Jogger, BOB, Britax, Bugaboo, Cybex, ERGObaby, Mamas & Papas, Motherhood Maternity, Nap Nanny, Pediped, Peg Pérego, Phil & Teds, Robeez, Tommee Tippee, Under Armour, electronic learning toys, netbooks, tablets, video game hardware, video games, Apple products, FAO products, RobotGalaxy, Buyer Protection Plan, gift cards, photo studios, phone orders, Special Orders, assembly fee, breast-pump rental free, delivery free, and shipping & handling. Not valid with any other “R”Us total transaction offer or on prior purchases. Coupon must be surrendered at time of purchase and value is forfeited if item is returned. Coupon prorated among eligible items purchased. Only original coupons accepted. Void where prohibited. Valid USA only. Cash value 1/100 of 1¢.

** To redeem from your phone, display mobile coupon at checkout. In-store purchase only. One coupon per guest. Not valid with any other “R”Us offer for same item or on prior purchases. Coupon must be surrendered at time of purchase and value is forfeited if item is returned. We reserve the right to limit quantities. Void where prohibited. Valid contiguous United States, Alaska and Hawaii. Cash value 1/100 of 1¢.  For phone card offer, discounted item must be of equal or lesser value to the lowest priced item purchased. Creepy Crawlers offer excludes Incredible Edibles Fright Factory. Sale prices valid through 11/25/11. Prices may vary at Toy“R”Us Express and outlet stores. Interim price changes may have occurred. Select items, styles or events may not be available at all locations. We reserve the right to limit quantities.

***Standard text and data rates apply.  Up to two messages per week.  Text STOP to end, HELP for help.

Media Contact:
Katie Reczek
973-617-4381
Katie.Reczek@toysrus.com

The store will offer a robust assortment of the hottest toys of the holiday season, including many that can be found only at Toys“R”Us, such as the Air Swimmers^® eXtreme flying fish and shark from Animal Planet^™, dancing robot My Keepon from Wow! Stuff and tiny, squishy garbage-themed characters named after the icky, stinky delights found in the trash – The Trash Pack^™ from Moose Toys^®. 

“Our team worked around the clock to get our Johnson City store ready to reopen, and we are thrilled that we were able to complete this renovation in time to provide holiday shoppers with the best and broadest assortment of toys and gifts for the children in their lives,” said Troy Rice, Senior Vice President, Store Operations, Toys“R”Us, U.S. “We know that we have loyal customers in the area who have been eagerly awaiting the store’s reopening, and we will offer them great deals on the hottest toys of the year in the coming weeks.”

In conjunction with the store’s reopening, Toys“R”Us, Inc. has donated $5,000 to the Boys and Girls Club of Western Broome.  The store will host parents of 25 children from the Boys and Girls Club for a shopping spree, during which they will be able to pick out some of the gifts that top their kids’ wish lists this holiday season.  Several families participating in the shopping spree lost personal possessions as a result of recent flooding in the area. 

Parents and gift-givers can shop Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us from 12 noon to 1am on Friday, November 18, 7am to 12 midnight on Saturday, November 19 and 8am to 10pm on Sunday, November 20.  From Monday, November 21 through Wednesday, November 23 the store will be open from 8am to 11pm.  Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us Johnson City will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, but will reopen at 9pm that night for the official kickoff of the holiday shopping season – Black Friday – and remain open through 10pm on Friday, November 25.

Originally opened in November 1988 as a stand-alone Toys“R”Us location, the Johnson City store was remodeled in 2006 as one of the company’s first Side-by-Side stores with Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us together under one roof.  This integrated store format is now an ongoing strategy for the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer to bring two trusted brands together under one roof. The new store’s design provides customers with a streamlined shopping environment that is easy-to-navigate and showcases the exclusive and private brand product offerings customers have come to expect.

Since the company embarked on its integrated store strategy in 2006, it has converted more than 100 stores in the United States to the Side-by-Side format. In 2010, the company opened its first brand new Side-by-Side locations bringing Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us to more communities across the country. The integrated store format provides an exceptional shopping convenience for time-strapped parents, offering a wide selection of juvenile products and toys, including exclusive offerings that can only be found at “R”Us^® stores.  

A Foundation in Sustainable Building

Beyond the store’s broad assortment of playthings for kids of all ages, Toys“R”Us/Babies“R”Us Johnson City has been remodeled to include a number of sustainable features with the goal of conserving energy and reducing the store’s overall impact to the environment in the Johnson City-area. 

These features include:

• A state-of-the-art Energy Management System (EMS) that monitors environmental conditions and adjusts temperature, lighting and CO₂ levels throughout the store in order to utilize natural light and reduce energy consumption
• Energy efficient Light Emitting Diode (LED) fixtures in outdoor signage instead of florescent signage, which increase energy savings and reduce toxic materials and maintenance costs
• Low-flow water closets and urinals and automatic faucets and flush valves, which conserve water
• High efficiency automatic hand dryers that use 80% less energy than standard hand dryers while eliminating the need for paper towel products and therefore lessen the impact on landfills
• A cardboard baler that facilitates recycling and reduces the impact on landfills
• Low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) paint and floor adhesive are used during construction because they produce little odor during application and no lingering odor once cured
• A vestibule entry way system reduces the amount of outside contaminants being tracked into the store interior, while helping to increase indoor air quality

About Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 873 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in more than 600 international stores and over 140 licensed stores in 35 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com and FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates annually worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Additional information about Toys“R”Us, Inc. can be found on Toysrusinc.com. Follow Toys“R”Us, Babies“R”Us and FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/Toysrus, Facebook.com/Babiesrus and Facebook.com/FAO and on Twitter at Twitter.com/Toysrus and Twitter.com/Babiesrus.

Media Contacts:
Toys"R"Us, Inc.
Katie Reczek
973.617.4381
Katie.Reczek@toysrus.com

The 28-page Toys“R”Us Thanksgiving weekend circular will appear in newspapers across the country and online at Toysrus.com on Thursday, November 24, offering nearly 300 deals. In addition, current and new Rewards“R”Us^® members can earn 10 percent back on purchases made in-store and online.^** New for this holiday season, Rewards“R”Us members can also earn a 2012 Super Savers Pass when they spend $200 or more through Saturday, December 24, through which they’ll receive more than $100 in savings, including exclusive coupons sent via e-mail each month in 2012.

“We know our customers like to get an early start on their Black Friday shopping, so we’re offering more savings than ever and providing even more hours to save by opening our stores at 9pm on Thanksgiving night,” said Greg Ahearn, Chief Marketing Officer, Toys“R”Us, U.S. “Black Friday is truly the kickoff to the holiday shopping season, and we’re excited to welcome customers at Toys“R”Us stores across the country for what has become an annual tradition for many families after Thanksgiving dinner is finished.”

The Season of Savings Begins with Hot Doorbusters: 9pm Thanksgiving Night

As soon as the turkey is gobbled and the dinner table is cleared, family, friends and eager shoppers can get a jump start on fulfilling holiday wish lists at Toys“R”Us by scanning their newspaper circulars for Black Friday deals. With Toys“R”Us stores opening at 9pm on Thanksgiving evening, savvy savers have even more hours to shop for Black Friday values – in fact, 26 hours straight, as the doors of Toys“R”Us stores will not close until 11pm on Friday, November 25. Consumers can also take advantage of these same deals and discounts at Toysrus.com beginning Thursday, November 24 at 9pm.

Following are examples of select doorbusters available at Toys“R”Us stores beginning Thursday, November 24 at 9pm through Friday, November 25 at 1pm, while supplies last:

Free $50 Toys“R”Us Gift Card with purchase of any Apple^® iPod^® touch (Available on in-store purchases only; Limit one per guest; Valid 6 hours after activation and expires 1/28/12)
SAVE $120 on POWER WHEELS Boss or Barbie 12-Volt Ford Mustang Ride-Ons – Was: $319.99 each; Now: $199.99 each
50% OFF LeapFrog Leapster^® 2 – Was: $49.99; Now: $24.99
50% OFF My Baby Alive – Was: $44.99; Now: $22.49
50% OFF Riptunes 2GB MP3 Player with Video – Was: $29.99; Now: $14.99
50% OFF Sylvania 7-inch Android Tablet or 7-inch Android Netbook – Was: $149.99 each; Now: $74.99 each
40% OFF ALL LeapFrog Leapster^® Software – prices vary
40% OFF TRANSFORMERS Dark of the Moon Ultimate Optimus Prime – Was: $79.99; Now: $47.99
35% OFF Select LEGO^® Construction Sets – prices vary
BUY 10 for $10 on ALL Squinkies^™ 2-Packs (Must purchase 10 to receive the deal; Originally $2.49 each)
BUY 2 GET 3^rd FREE on Beyblade Metal Fusion Battle Tops – prices vary
$10 Special Value Pack of Babies“R”Us^® Diapers (48 – 96 ct) – Over $50 value (Includes $38 in coupon savings; Limit 4 per guest; Available at Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us)

Toysrus.com and Facebook.com/Toysrus will also preview more than 40 “Mystery Deals” on Tuesday, November 22 at 12:01am. These secret savings will be available in Toys“R”Us stores from 9pm on Thanksgiving night until 1pm on Friday afternoon, but customers can only find out about them by visiting these sites in advance.

Earlier Risers Still Have Time to Snap Up Savings: 5am – 1pm on Friday, November 25

Those who prefer to sleep off their turkey dinner before heading to stores will still have the opportunity to take advantage of incredible savings at Toys“R”Us, with nearly 50 new doorbuster deals available on Friday, November 25 from 5am – 1pm during the 26-hour sale, while supplies last. Following are examples of these doorbusters:

FREE $19.99 Imaginarium Starter Kit with ANY Imaginarium^® or Crayola^® Easel priced $19.99 or more (Limit one per guest)
SAVE $20 on Crayola^® Digital Camcorder and Camera (sold separately) – Was: $49.99 each; Now: $29.99 each
SAVE $30 on Toys“R”Us-Exclusive Disney Princess Royal Talking Kitchen – Was: $69.99; Now: $39.99
50% OFF Tonka^® Bounce Back Racer – Was: $29.99; Now: $14.99
50% OFF LeapFrog Alphabet Pal – Was: $19.99; Now: $9.99
50% OFF Serta^® Master Sleeper Crib and Toddler Mattress (Available at Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us) – Was: $179.99; Now: $89.99
50% OFF Select Shermag Glider and Ottoman Combos or Newco Upholstered Recliners (Available at Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us) – prices vary
40% OFF Select LEGO Construction Sets – prices vary
BUY 1 GET 1 FREE on ALL Earth’s Best Variety or Pantry Packs (Limit two per guest; Available at Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us) – prices vary

Marathon Shoppers Can Take Advantage of the Thursday through Saturday Sale

Customers can take advantage of deals and discounts on nearly 200 additional items at Toys“R”Us stores nationwide, from Thursday at opening until Saturday closing.  Following are highlights of the deals and discounts available at Toys“R”Us stores from Thursday, November 24 at 9pm through Saturday, November 26 at 11pm, while supplies last:

BUY 1 GET 1 50% OFF ALL Trash Pack^® purchases – prices vary
BUY 1 GET 1 50% OFF ALL Moshi Monsters^™ purchases – prices vary
FREE $10 Toys“R”Us Gift Card and $100 Savings with ANY Xbox 360 console purchase
BUY 1 GET 1 FREE on ALL Toys“R”Us^® Battery Pack purchases – prices vary
BUY 1 GET 1 for $5 on Select Xbox^® 360, PS3 and Wii^® video game purchases between $29.99 and $59.99
50% OFF Fisher Price^® Medical Kits – Was: $14.99 each; Now: $6.99 each
50% OFF Crayola^® Super Art Kits – Was: $19.99 each; Now: $9.99 each
50% OFF ALL Carter's^® Clothing and Sleepwear (Available at Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us) – prices vary
50% OFF ALL Disney^® NFL Pillows and Blankets (Available at Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us) – prices vary
20% OFF Air Swimmers^® eXtreme from Animal Planet^™ – Was $49.99; Now: $39.99
FREE Pampers Value Box of Wipes (384ct or less) with ANY purchase of a Pampers Value Box of Diapers (88ct or more) (Available at Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us)

Toys“R”Us Facebook Fans Can Enter Black Friday Red Carpet Sweepstakes

Now through November 17 at 11:59pm EST, new and current fans of the company’s Facebook page, Facebook.com/Toysrus, can enter an exclusive sweepstakes for the chance to win a Toys“R”Us Grand Prize Black Friday Shopping Event. One winner will receive limo service and red carpet entry to their local Toys“R”Us store on Thanksgiving evening at 8pm – one hour before the store officially opens for Black Friday shopping. This winner will also receive a $1,000 Toys“R”Us gift card and a personal shopper to assist them in selecting the perfect gifts for the kids on their list.^***

One hundred second prize winners will receive a $100 Toys“R”Us gift card that they can use on Black Friday. All winners will be notified by email at least one week prior to Thanksgiving. After visiting Facebook.com/Toysrus to enter, social savvy customers are encouraged to let their friends and family know about this exciting shopping opportunity simply by clicking the “Share” button and posting it to their Facebook Wall.

Holiday Survival Coupon Book for First 100 Black Friday Customers at Each Store

This Black Friday, the first 100 customers to line up at their local Toys“R”Us store will receive a 48-page coupon booklet valued at more than $500 in savings, helping customers to stretch their dollars while dining out, catching a movie, going clothes shopping or booking a family cruise. In addition to the offers in the booklet, customers will gain access to the SaversGuide^® website for 60 days, where they can enter their ZIP code to discover even more great deals at their favorite restaurants, attractions and destinations. Coupons retrieved online must be printed to redeem the offers.

^*Toys“R”Us stores nationwide will open at 9pm on Thursday, November 24, except for stores in Paramus, NJ, which will open on Friday, November 25 at 7am, and select stores in Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Puerto Rico, which will have varying store open times. In general, these hours do not apply to Toys“R”Us Express or Outlet locations, which will follow the hours of their respective shopping centers. All store hours can be found online at www.Toysrus.com/BlackFridayStoreHours. 
^**Excludes purchases of gift cards, shipping and handling charges, and reward eligible greeting cards, formula, diapers and LeapFrog products. See a store employee or Toysrus.com/Rewards for maximum rewards and complete details. Customers who spend $500 or more will earn the maximum reward of $50 in “R”Us Dollars.
^***If the grand prize winner is not within a 100 (one hundred) mile radius of a Toys“R”Us store location, Toys“R”Us reserves the right to substitute the shopping spree with a gift card of comparable or greater value.

About Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 873 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in more than 600 international stores and over 140 licensed stores in 35 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com and FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates annually worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Additional information about Toys“R”Us, Inc. can be found on Toysrusinc.com. Follow Toys“R”Us, Babies“R”Us and FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/Toysrus, Facebook.com/Babiesrus and Facebook.com/FAO, and on Twitter at Twitter.com/Toysrus and Twitter.com/Babiesrus.

Media Contacts:
Toys"R"Us, Inc.
Adrienne O'Hara
646-366-8863/ 973-617-4383
Adrienne.Ohara@toysrus.com

Bob Friedland
646-366-8862
Bob.Friedland@Toysrus.com

The tween television sensation, Victorious, which follows aspiring singer Tori Vega at her performing arts school and features rising teen star Victoria Justice, is the latest Sony Music-partnered live-action sitcom on Nickelodeon to inspire a full-scale consumer products program.The entire licensed consumer electronics segment is available exclusively at Toys“R”Us.

“Toys“R”Us is the ultimate destination for the latest kid-favorite licensed merchandise, and we are especially thrilled to offer our customers this new assortment of products inspired by Nickelodeon’s wildly popular sitcom, Victorious,” said Richard Barry, Vice President, General Merchandising Manager, Toys“R”Us, U.S. “Knowing that kids and tweens are already placing these must-have gifts on their holiday wish lists, we are excited to introduce cool, new electronics and accessories that can only be found at Toys“R”Us.”

Tween Sensation Inspires Cool Consumer Electronics, Available Only at Toys“R”Us

While kids are plugged in, jamming out or snapping pics, they can showcase their affinity for the Victorious brand and the incredibly talented Victoria Justice. Ranging from $9.99 and $99.99, the licensed consumer electronics assortment, available exclusively at Toys“R”Us, includes nearly 20 items for Victorious fans between six and 12 years old, from digital video cameras and accessories, portable DVD players, microphones, guitars and clock radios, to MP3/MP4 players, CD players, boomboxes and karaoke machines.  Additionally, kids will be delighted to find a range of computer accessories, iPad and iPod accessories, as well as headphones and more, featuring their favorite Nickelodeon superstar.

From Singing Dolls to Sparkly Totes, Kids Can Enjoy Victorious On-the-Go

Whether at school, at home or on-the-go, kids can bring Victoria Justice (aka Tori Vega) with them. Those who want to experience Tori Vega’s vocals up close and personal will want to get their hands on a Tori Singing Doll from Spin Master^™, which was designed to reflect the rockin’ looks of Victoria Justice in her lead role. As the microphone is lifted to her mouth, the doll sings the words of the show’s theme song, “Make It Shine.” Additional lifestyle merchandise suited to complete kids’ wardrobes, school lockers and more, is also available, including a glitzy, hot-pink Victorious Tote Bag that can only be found at Toys“R”Us. Big enough to carry everything needed for a day in school or a sleepover with friends, the double-handle bag makes for a convenient carry-all complete with an interior zippered pocket for secret storage. 

To download high-res images of the Victorious-inspired merchandise available at Toys“R”Us, click here: https://toysrus.sharefile.com/d/s7b40d8f7f474f97b.

About Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 873 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in more than 600 international stores and over 140 licensed stores in 35 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com and FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates annually worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need.

Media Contacts:
Toys"R"Us, Inc.
Adrienne O'Hara
(973) 617-4383
Adrienne.Ohara@toysrus.com