Smyths toy store have responded to a number of questions that Irish customers have been asking in the lead up to Christmas.
With the catalogue going out to homes earlier in September, the chain has been bombarded with questions about the festive season.
They have also had to deal with rumours stores would be shutting on October 1 and all trade going online - they confirmed this is a complete online lie.
But, if you have been wondering about how Smyths would operate this Christmas, we have the answers.
Here are the answers to the most commonly asked questions about Christmas 2020.
Smyths answer common Christmas questions
Have you seen people shopping for Christmas already?
We have seen some bigger box items purchased and anecdotally from store managers we have seen more trolleys instore than usual for this time of year.
Do you expect more people to shop earlier than normal as a result of covid?
We are not 100% sure but we feel for popular lines people will shop earlier or where they have younger children who can be guided as to what they like they may purchase earlier.
Kids who are of school age people usually tend to purchase later as they can change their mind.
Will online and click and collect be more Important?
We have seen a significant increase in online sales since March We offer FREE same day click and collect service at all of our stores. This is a safe and quick way to shop at our stores also for our older customers who may be nervous. We luckily were able to offer this during lockdown also. Home Delivery is available full details here: https://www.smythstoys.com/ie/en-ie/shipping-and-delivery
I was wondering what plans are being put in place to manage crowds this year or will the best advice be to shop early and be more organised?
Not everyone can shop early so we have measures in place.
Our FREE 300 page toy catalogue is available instore from 25th September for those who would like to get a head start.
Sign up to our email campaigns for the latest offers each week.
We would say our same day FREE click and collect is an efficient way to shop.
We will also extend our opening hours from Thursday 19th November and we will open Monday to Friday till 11pm till 23rd December. Home Delivery will also be available.
We also have our Gift Finder which helps customers who are unsure gift givers like aunts and uncles and grandparents - https://www.smythstoys.com/ie/en-ie/gift-finder-hub
Are there any toys in particular demand and do we know what is likely to sell out?
We can never be 100% sure on what may sell out but we have a strong level of stock availability this year.
