Toys 'R' Us adds multichannel services

Wayne, N.J. Toys “R” Us said Thursday it has added multichannel services, including online ordering with same-day in-store pickup options, and inventory checking options for online customers that allow shoppers to check product availability in stores nationwide or on Toysrus.com and Babiesrus.com.

Store associates can also help locate items in nearby stores or order them online to be shipped to a customer's home free of charge.

"We know that an increasing number of customers are using our e-commerce site not only to make purchases but to research products available in our stores, and we are pleased to offer streamlined services to help busy parents and gift-givers save time and shop more efficiently," said Greg Ahearn, senior VP marketing and e-commerce, Toys “R” Us.

Beginning Oct. 26, online shoppers can use the Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store service, which guarantees in-store access to more than 7,500 items within two hours of ordering, said the company. The service will be available at about 260 Babies “R” Us stores nationwide, as well as at targeted Toys “R” Us stores in major U.S. markets and metropolitan areas, including Atlanta; Austin; Boston; Chicago; Los Angeles; Miami; Seattle; and Washington, D.C.

The company said it plans to expand Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store to include all Toys “R” Us locations nationwide by the middle of next year.

Toysrus.com will offer free shipping deals throughout the holiday season, according to the toy retailer.