Toys "R" Us expands layaway and payment options

Wayne, N.J. --Toys "R" Us Inc. will expand its layaway program and incorporate flexible payment options in order to spur holiday sales.

The chain’s layaway program, offered at its Toys "R" Us and Babies "R" Us stores nationwide, in conjunction with a limited-time Bill Me Later service, will enable customers to make a series of smaller payments over time.

The layaway program debuted in 2009 for big-ticket items such as bicycles and swing sets. On Oct. 15, Toys "R" Us said it will expand the program to include playthings – Barbies, Legos, etc. – in 450 of its 600 stores.

The in-store layaway option gives customers 90 days to pay for their item(s), with a 20% down payment. Layaway orders for toys must be paid in full by December 4 in order to guarantee Christmas availability.

As part of its expanded services, Toys "R" Us is offering online customers a Bill Me Later option to make flexible payments over time as an alternative to the in-store layaway program. As well, the retailer is debuting its first online catalog, highlighting many of the big-ticket items that can be put on layaway in all stores nationwide, or purchased online using the Bill Me Later payment option.